Republic Bank’s “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme Crowns St. Lawrence Primary as Guyana’s 2025 Champions

In a thrilling finale that encapsulated the spirit of youth cricket, St. Lawrence Primary School from Essequibo emerged as the national champions of the Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme in Guyana. The 2025 season concluded on November 15 at the National Gymnasium in Georgetown, marking the third consecutive year of the programme’s success in the country and its growing impact across the Caribbean.

The Grand Finale: A Display of Passion and Skill

The national finals were a spectacle of energy, color, and youthful exuberance. Despite the early arrival of Guyana’s rainy season forcing the event indoors, the competition retained its intensity. St. Lawrence Primary edged out a determined Massiah Primary from Berbice in a closely contested match, securing their place as Guyana’s top primary school cricket team for 2025.

The atmosphere inside the National Gymnasium was electric, with music, cheers, and the vibrant spirit of young athletes filling the air. The event was not just about competition but too about celebrating the values of teamwork, inclusion, and fun—core principles of the “Five for Fun” initiative.

A Programme Built on Growth and Opportunity

Since its inception in Guyana in 2023, the Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme has rapidly evolved into one of the region’s most influential grassroots sporting initiatives. The 2025 edition saw participation from 75 schools across all three counties in Guyana, providing hundreds of children with their first exposure to structured cricket in a supportive and engaging environment.

Ronald Williams, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board, highlighted the programme’s significance in nurturing young talent. In a statement, he praised the partnership between Cricket West Indies (CWI) and Republic Bank, emphasizing its role in creating a clear pathway for youth development:

“The partnership between CWI and RBL will ensure that our young cricketers have the pathway to develop their skills and to move on progressively from the incredibly tender age into the structured Guyana Cricket from the U-13 level, U-15, U-17, U-19, and onwards.”

The programme’s success in Guyana is part of a broader regional effort. In 2025, Guyana was the fifth and final territory to conclude its “Five for Fun” season, following exciting finales in St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago. This regional expansion underscores the initiative’s growing footprint and its role in fostering cricket development across the Caribbean.

Why “Five for Fun” Stands Out

The “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme is designed to introduce children to cricket in a way that prioritizes enjoyment and accessibility. Unlike traditional formats, the programme emphasizes:

• Inclusivity: Ensuring children of all skill levels and backgrounds can participate.
• Teamwork: Encouraging collaboration and camaraderie among young players.
• Fun: Creating a positive and engaging environment to spark a lifelong love for the sport.
• Friendly Competition: Balancing rivalry with sportsmanship to teach valuable life lessons.

KJ Singh, Senior Project Officer for Schools Cricket at Cricket West Indies, underscored the programme’s importance in a recent statement:

“The partnership between Cricket West Indies and Republic Bank on the Five for Fun Cricket programme is vital. It lays the groundwork for cricket development at both the national and regional levels, allowing hundreds of children in Guyana and other participating Caribbean countries the opportunity to learn and play the game in a fun and structured way.”

The Road Ahead: Building on Success

The 2025 season’s success sets the stage for even greater ambitions in the years to arrive. With the programme now firmly established in Guyana and expanding across the Caribbean, its impact on youth cricket is undeniable. The initiative not only introduces children to the sport but also provides a structured pathway for those who wish to pursue cricket at higher levels, from under-13 teams to professional leagues.

For Republic Bank and Cricket West Indies, the “Five for Fun” programme is more than just a sporting event—it’s an investment in the future of Caribbean cricket. By nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the game, the programme is helping to shape the next generation of cricketers who may one day represent the West Indies on the global stage.

Key Takeaways from the 2025 Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme

• Champion Team: St. Lawrence Primary School (Essequibo) claimed the national title after a thrilling finale.
• Runner-Up: Massiah Primary School (Berbice) put up a spirited performance in the finals.
• Participation: 75 schools across Guyana’s three counties took part in the 2025 edition.
• Regional Reach: Guyana was the fifth territory to conclude its season, following St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago.
• Core Values: The programme focuses on fun, inclusion, teamwork, and friendly competition.
• Development Pathway: Provides a structured route for young cricketers to progress through age-group levels (U-13, U-15, U-17, U-19).

FAQs About the Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme

What is the Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme?

The “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme is a grassroots initiative developed by Cricket West Indies in partnership with Republic Bank. It aims to introduce children to cricket in a fun, inclusive, and engaging way, whereas also providing a pathway for talent development.

Who can participate in the programme?

The programme is open to primary school students across participating Caribbean countries, including Guyana, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago. It is designed to be accessible to children of all skill levels.

How does the programme benefit young cricketers?

The programme not only teaches children the fundamentals of cricket but also instills values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. It also provides a clear development pathway for those who wish to pursue cricket at higher levels, from youth teams to professional leagues.

What makes the “Five for Fun” format unique?

Unlike traditional cricket formats, “Five for Fun” prioritizes enjoyment and accessibility. The rules and structure are simplified to ensure that children can focus on learning and having fun, rather than the pressures of competition.

How can schools get involved?

Schools interested in participating in the programme can reach out to their local cricket boards or visit the official Cricket West Indies website for more information on registration and eligibility.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Caribbean Cricket

The Republic Bank “Five for Fun” Cricket Programme is more than just a tournament—it’s a movement that is transforming the landscape of youth cricket in the Caribbean. By providing children with the opportunity to learn, grow, and compete in a supportive environment, the programme is laying the foundation for the next generation of West Indian cricketers.

As the 2025 season comes to a close, the success of St. Lawrence Primary School and the enthusiasm of all participants serve as a testament to the programme’s impact. With continued support from partners like Republic Bank and Cricket West Indies, the future of Caribbean cricket looks brighter than ever.