GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Former Guyana opening batsman Krishna Arjune believes West Indies can be crowned champions at the International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over-40s World Cup, which Guyana will host from October 17-31.
Arjune said the squad looks balanced and the presence of a plethora of former West Indies players has given him confidence that they could be the champion unit.
“I like the side especially with so many established players in the squad; glad to see Ramnaresh Sarwan who had done well for both Guyana and West Indies,” said Arjune, who appeared in 40 first-class matches. “These guys will bring a lot of experience, and that will be important.”
West Indies will be captained by former multi-format West Indies player Denesh Ramdin, and Arjune expects him to lead from the front.
“He was an excellent captain for his country, Trinidad and Tobago and the West Indies, so with a good all-round squad I know he will lead from the front,” Arjune declared.
West Indies will begin their campaign against Australia at the National Stadium, Providence. They have been placed in Group A alongside Wales, Canada, Colombia, Namibia, Sri Lanka and reigning champions South Africa.
Group B comprises New Zealand, Scotland, Pakistan, USA, India, England, Rest of the World X1 and Rest of the Caribbean X1.
Sewnarine Chattergoon, Jason Mohammed, Rayad Emrit and Devendra Bishoo are among the other players in the West Indies squad who have represented the region in both Test and abbreviated formats.
Arjune added that the regional side must make the most of home advantage.
“Yes, this is a big way for them to utilise home conditions and that is a huge plus for West Indies as well,” he said. “I understand they will play matches across Guyana, so that is even better because most of the guys played enough cricket in Guyana to know these conditions.”
In addition to Providence, matches will be hosted at Albion, Bourda, Malteenoes, Police Sports Club, Eve Leary, Anna Regina Stadium, Joe Jagmohan Hampton Court, Enmore and Lusignan.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, while the grand finale is slated for the National Stadium, Providence.
This historic second edition of the global event is being run by IMC in collaboration with the Cricket West Indies Masters Association. South Africa are the reigning champions after defeating New Zealand in the 2024 final in Cape Town.
CMC
