Cricket Commentary In New York – A Way Forward

Carl Bennett and Lenny Achaibar (Photo by Shiek Mohamed)

“It will be Brian Lara and Daren Ganga opening the batting for the Caribbean XI here a Floyd Bennett Field – with five thousand or more spectators are on the edge of their seats in anticipation of greatness on display” are among the sounds resonating from the commentary box spearheaded by Leonard Achaibar and Carl Bennett to fill the listening ears of the anxious audience.

The reverberation around the ground in this Summer 2006 Extravaganza between the Caribbean XI and the United States XI is an indication of the crowd’s appreciation as they applaud the commentary team for their much-valued contribution to the game. It prompted one of the leading cricket officials in the senior ranks of US cricket to state, “beyond communicating the drama as it unfolds on the field, the commentary bring to light the memories of home away from home where cricket and broadcast commentary generally goes hand-in-hand. Also, it has reinvigorated the cricket-loving audience.”

The cricketing public in the New York Region area is experiencing, and much to their delight, a new wave of entertainment in advancing the already rapid progress of the sport in the United States. This team of Leonard and Carl has sought to give to the game their contributions, which will undoubtedly thrust US cricket in a new direction. Their ability to bring excitement and purpose through the descriptive voice of one and the comprehensive analysis of the other have kept audiences well informed about statistical data, player’s bio data, comparative assessment and updated rules.

It has served to enlighten and engage their audience as to the often rapidly changing complexion of the game as is substantiated by their coverage of the current 2006 Ed Ahmad Caribbean Cup 20/20 and Limited 50 overs competitions. This commentary team has managed to get the viewing audience involved, spurring more constructive debates on the overall climate of the game locally and internationally. Players and umpires alike have been greatly assisted by the information echoed from the commentary box in the absence of scoreboards.

It has been a summer filled with renewed interest and excitement buoyed by this dynamic commentary duo. This was brilliantly exhibited in the recently concluded 15th Annual Sundar Memorial match at Whitestone Park, Bronx, a match that was graced by the presence of legendary former Test greats, Joe Solomon and Basil Butcher.

Additionally, the upcoming Indo-Caribbean Federation (ICF) Cup match, also scheduled for Whitestone Park, promises the usual excitement and for the second consecutive year will be broadcast on the local airwaves. Local radio is also slated to broadcast the annual battle between Berbice and Demerara set for the Floyd Bennett Test field which also promises to be another sizzling showdown between these arch rivals.

Leonard and Carl have also been creating waves in the current Ed Ahmad CaribbeanCup with teams sporting flags and colors representing their respective countries whenever the commentary duo acknowledges their presence. Now that the 2006 cricket season is winding down with the playoffs and finals of the various Leagues on the horizon, the artery through which the information flows from match to match will be through this commentary team of Leonard and Carl keeping the audience engaged, informed and excited.