Guyana to Host 2026 Over-40 Masters World Cup; WIPA Intervenes in Kevin Sinclair Selection Row
By: Delwin Neblett | HGP Nightly News|
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — Guyana continues to cement its position as a global sporting hub with the official announcement of the 2026 Over-40 Masters World Cup. However, the cricketing world is also buzzing with a domestic selection controversy involving one of Guyana’s most talented all-rounders. Here is your sports update for Friday, April 10, 2026.
Cricket: WIPA Challenges Non-Selection of Kevin Sinclair
The West Indies Players Association (WIPA) has officially stepped into the fray following the omission of all-rounder Kevin Sinclair from the Guyana Harpy Eagles squad.
- The Dispute: At a recent press conference, Guyanese selectors, including Chairman Ramnaresh Sarwan, cited “disciplinary issues” and a “pattern of behavior” that allegedly disrupted team unity for over a year.
- Sinclair’s Defense: Sinclair has released an emotional statement defending his character, asserting that his on-field intensity is a product of his “love and respect for the game” rather than any intent to cause friction.
- WIPA’s Stance: WIPA Secretary Wayne Lewis confirmed on Tuesday that the association will engage Cricket West Indies (CWI) to seek a resolution. Lewis expressed hope for an “expeditious” outcome, as the Harpy Eagles prepare for their Regional 4-Day opener this Sunday.
Cricket: Guyana Named Hosts of 2026 Over-40 Masters World Cup
In a major win for sports tourism, Guyana has been confirmed as the host for the 2026 IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup, scheduled for October 17 to November 1, 2026.
- The Field: Up to 16 international teams, including powerhouses Australia, England, and India, are expected to compete.
- The West Indies Squad: The regional team will be a star-studded affair, headlined by former captain Ramnaresh Sarwan and two-time T20 World Champion Lendl Simmons.
- Government Support: Minister Steven Jacobs met with the Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) this week, pledging the use of world-class facilities including the Providence, Palmyra, Anna Regina, and Linden stadiums.
- Legacy Projects: The government has also committed to refurbishing local grounds at Enmore, Malteenoes, Lusignan, and Albion to serve as training and match venues.
Cycling: Independence 3-Stage Meet Route Confirmed for May
The Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) has finalized the route for the prestigious Independence Three-Stage Cycle Race, set for May 23rd–24th.
- Stage 1 (Saturday): A grueling 75-mile leg from Linden to Yarrowkabra, returning to Linden.
- Stage 2 (Saturday Afternoon): A 55-mile coastal dash from the Independence Arch in Georgetown, finishing at Schoonord, West Bank Demerara.
- Stage 3 (Sunday): The meet concludes with an intense 41-mile circuit race, where local star Briton John is expected to defend his title against regional competition.
Football: Santa Rosa and West Ruimveldt Secure Wins in U-18 League
Action in the Petra Organization’s 2026 Massy Distribution U-18 Schools Football League continued on Wednesday at the Queen’s College Ground with eight high-stakes fixtures.
- Matchday Results: Santa Rosa Secondary (Region 1) continues to impress with a dominant showing, while West Ruimveldt Secondary and East Ruimveldt also secured critical victories to keep their knockout hopes alive.
- Other Winners: Yarrowkabra Secondary, Charlestown Secondary, and St. John’s College all walked away with maximum points on a day that saw over 20 goals scored across the eight matches.
Community Sport: Minister Jacobs Assesses Bath Community Centre
Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Hon. Steven Jacobs, spent Wednesday in Region 5, conducting a community outreach at the Bath Community Centre.
- Infrastructure Check: The Minister engaged directly with residents and local athletes to assess the current state of the facility’s pavilion and outfield.
- Empowerment: Jacobs emphasized that upgrading rural facilities is key to the government’s strategy to decentralize high-performance sports training and empower youth outside of Georgetown.
