The Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket programme has worked well in keeping young cricketers out on the field for the entire year, so says president of the T&T Cricket Board (TTCB) Azim Bassarath.
Speaking to Trinidad Guardian, Bassarath said: "We are very happy with the output we have gotten in terms of the Scotiabank Kiddy cricket programme. When you drive around T&T and we have been doing that regularly, making sure our programmes are what we want it to be, you see kids on the playing field.
"Recently, I sat and looked at kids playing zonal practice matches under the WICB Grassroots programme and we are in the wet season. This was unheard of before but then I thought deeper and realised the reason for this constant action is the fact that Scotiabank Kiddy cricket is supplying the youngsters.
"West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Territorial Development officer Kumar Rampath has really done a wonderful job in coordinating the programme and we are reaping the benefits now.
"What has made a difference as well is the fact that officials at Scotia and especially Cindy Mohammed from marketing has taken a keen interest in making sure the programme delivers. I want to thank Scotiabank, who has been with West Indies cricket through all the difficult times and I want to let them know that through their efforts, coupled with the administration of the T&TCB and the WICB, that regional cricket will rise again very soon.
"They have invested in the future of West Indies cricket and we are here to ensure that their investment pays rich dividends. What we have noticed is an increase in the number of youngsters coming through the system and this is a direct result of the investment. We hope that they continue to stay the course and want to assure them that we will do all that is necessary to make sure their investment remains a worthwhile venture."