The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited proudly marked another significant milestone in preserving Guyana’s sporting and cultural heritage with the launch of History of Cricket in Guyana, Volume III (1915–1923): No Silver Lining Yet, authored by distinguished historian Professor Clem Seecharan.
Held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the historic Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda, the occasion brought together distinguished representatives from government, the cricketing fraternity, academia, the business community, and specially invited guests for an evening of reflection, appreciation, and national pride. The event was dedicated to the memory of the late Dr. Ian McDonald, whose vision and passion for cricket were instrumental in inspiring this remarkable literary undertaking.
The publication holds particular significance for Hand-in-Hand, whose establishment in 1865 coincided with the dawn of first-class cricket in Guyana. That same year, Demerara (British Guiana) hosted Barbados in the country’s inaugural first-class cricket match at Parade Ground, Georgetown. This remarkable historical connection lends profound meaning to the Company’s continued commitment to documenting the sport’s evolution, uniting two enduring legacies that have helped shape Guyana’s history for more than 160 years.
Hand-in-Hand’s Chairman, John Carpenter, delivered a heartfelt tribute to Dr. McDonald, reflecting on his extraordinary contributions to literature, cricket, and the intellectual life of Guyana and the wider Caribbean. He recalled Dr. McDonald’s enduring association with Hand-in-Hand and his profound commitment to preserving the stories and achievements that define the nation’s heritage. His remarks offered a poignant reminder of the lasting influence of an exceptional Guyanese whose legacy continues to inspire.
Hand-in-Hand Director, Paul Chan-A-Sue, subsequently introduced Professor Seecharan, highlighting his distinguished academic career and invaluable contributions to Caribbean historical scholarship.
In his address, Professor Seecharan reflected with deep appreciation on the origins of the History of Cricket in Guyana series, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the late Dr. McDonald, whose encouragement and foresight gave impetus to the project as part of Hand-in-Hand’s 150th anniversary commemorations in 2015. He acknowledged Dr. McDonald’s pivotal role in transforming an ambitious historical vision into a lasting literary contribution that continues to illuminate the evolution of cricket and its profound relationship with Guyanese society.
Looking ahead, Professor Seecharan announced that research was already underway for Volume IV, envisioned as the fourth and final installment of the series. The forthcoming publication will bring this extensive historical undertaking to its conclusion, further enriching the documented legacy of Guyanese cricket and fulfilling the vision that inspired the project more than a decade ago.
Professor Seecharan also extended special appreciation to Hand-in-Hand’s Marketing Manager, Savita Singh, recognizing her invaluable efforts, dedication, and meticulous coordination in bringing the launch to fruition.
The evening’s feature address was delivered by renowned cricket commentator and historian Dr. Joseph “Reds” Perreira, following his introduction by Hand-in-Hand’s Managing Director, Omadatt Singh.
Dr. Perreira offered a compelling appreciation of Professor Seecharan’s exceptional scholarship, commending the depth of his research, the richness of his historical accounts, and his dedication to documenting a defining aspect of Guyana’s national story. Emphasizing the importance of making such knowledge accessible to future generations, he notably called upon the University of Guyana to consider introducing the history of cricket in Guyana as a subject of academic study.
His appeal underscored the significance of cricket beyond the boundaries of sport, recognizing its influence on the country’s social development, cultural identity, and collective consciousness.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Government of Guyana, the Honorable Charles Ramson Jr., Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, offered insightful reflections on the importance of safeguarding the nation’s cricketing history and celebrating the remarkable achievements of those who helped shape it.
The Minister highlighted cricket’s extraordinary ability to unite Guyanese across generations and communities, encouraging a renewed appreciation of the pride, shared identity, and national spirit inspired by the game. He also recognized the exceptional talent, accomplishments, and enduring contributions of former Guyanese cricketers, whose achievements continue to command admiration and inspire future generations.
His reflections reinforced the value of preserving these stories, not merely as records of sporting excellence, but as an essential part of Guyana’s historical and cultural inheritance.
Volumes I, II, and III of History of Cricket in Guyana are available for purchase at the Head Office of The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited, Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown.
