Panday hails Stanford champs T&T as role models
CMC | 25/02/08
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - Opposition leader Basdeo Panday has congratulated the victorious Trinidad & Tobago team, which captured the Stanford Twenty20 title on Sunday night.
Panday, political leader of the United National Congress, praised the Daren Ganga-led team on their spirit and professionalism in winning the tournament, after losing in the final of the inaugural competition.
"Congratulations to captain Daren Ganga, young William Perkins, 'Man of the Match' Dave Mohammed and the rest of the team, for a remarkable run throughout the tournament. They are role models and have accomplished something truly awesome," Panday said.
T&T overwhelmed Jamaica by nine wickets in the final on Sunday night at the Stanford Cricket Ground, to capture the US$1 million prize.
The victory was especially sweet for T&T who were beaten by Guyana in a last over thriller in the 2006 final.
Panday said achievements like this exemplified a commitment to excellence, which could easily promote fellowship among the nation's youths and the important role of sport in healthy living and social and personal development.
"Sport can be used as a means to an end as the world grapples with the intransigent problems faced by youths, which include crime, drug-taking, mental health problems and unemployment," Panday said.
"I am immensely proud of the T&T team, which showed great character, strength and determination throughout the tournament."
The triumphant T&T returned home on Monday and were met at the Piarco International Airport by Sports Minister Gary Hunt and Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Board officials.
