The Ontario Softball Cricket League executive.
Ontario Softball Cricket League
By Ravendra Madholall in Toronto
Past and current presidents of Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) Kenny Girdharry and Albert Ramcharran respectively are predicting a riveting 2014 season when the T10 segment bowls off on Saturday.
This year’s participation of 24 teams, an increase of two teams from the inaugural 2013 edition, perhaps spurred this sentiment that fans should be in for a great treat.
Both individuals are founding members of the league which was formed in 1996 with Girdharry being the boss from the inception year to 2012. Ramcharran has now been at the helm for the past three years and also served in the capacity as vice-president for many years. His initiative of the 10-over addition last year has seen a massive welcome.
In the a telephone interview with the two Guyanese, they were willing to say that OSCL is here to see the rapid development of softball cricket and what has materializing now with three formats (20, 10 and 15-overs) are nothing astounding.
“This is the second year in succession we will be having the 10-over competition and I am indeed happy to see a large number of teams taking part again; we can expect great competitions but at the same time I think it will be another wonderful tournament,” Ramcharran indicated.
Reviewing on what had taken place last year also encouraged the OSCL boss that more excitement from the beginning of this year’s tournament. The shortest version is always entertaining, according to Ramcharran.
“Cricket is about fun and with these competitive sides participating again certainly they will provide great entertainment and I am confident it will be another successful season as well,” the entrepreneur related.
Betterhope Sports Club is the reigning champion and recently declared they have been preparing vigorously to retain the trophy. They will commence their campaign against Caribbean Sensation HD at Ashtonbee ground on number one pitch in Scarborough.
Since the formation of the League, Girdharry said he was delighted to be a part of softball cricket and has enjoyed his time both on and off the field. He is the Scarboro Angel captain over the years, a testimony to his profound love and commitment.
“I would say cricket is a social ‘thing’, by getting out the family etc.; yes, I have enjoyed the game and with this new version of ten-overs really would test players’ ability to be more competitive; I have been around the softball for a very long time now and it is definitely developing steadily,” Girdharry mentioned.
He further revealed not only in the T10 format all the teams would like to win which may create an atmosphere of great rivalries on the field but also believes they want to play in a professional manner for the total enjoyment of the game.
“Softball is a good sport undoubtedly and I have seen teams played real nice cricket over the years and you will expect stiff competitions from the start especially on a knockout basis; absolutely everyone is coming to enjoy himself and play good cricket too,” Girdharry declared.
Meanwhile, the Regular Season (20-overs) starts on May 31 while the 15-over knock-out and Consolation competition is scheduled to begin on June 14 at various venues across the Greater Toronto Area. Both competitions are also touted to be exciting too.