Guest article by cricket fan Otis Roberts
Quentin Sampson has built an impressive cricketing resume, representing Essequibo at both the Under-17 and Under-19 levels, as well as Guyana in two editions of the Under-19 Sir Garfield Sobers tournament in Barbados and twice in the Regional Super50.
The inaugural Guyana T10 Blast, held earlier this year, showcased several emerging talents, but none stood out more than Sampson.
With a series of electrifying performances, Sampson has proven beyond doubt that he deserves a spot in the upcoming draft for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
His consistent improvement in limited-overs cricket over the past five years has culminated in a breakthrough performance that demands recognition.
Sampson’s batting figures in the Guyana T10 Blast are nothing short of phenomenal. He finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer, amassing 234 runs at an average of 39.00 and an astonishing strike rate of 262.92 from just nine innings.
His 29 sixes were the most in the tournament, seven more than the next best.
His best score, a blistering 83 from 23 deliveries, not only highlighted his explosive power, but also his ability to dominate bowlers from the outset.
Quentin Sampson on the go in the Guyana T10 Blast (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/April 27, 2024)
Furthermore, he recorded the fastest fifty of the tournament, reaching the milestone in just 14 balls. Such feats underline his potential to be a game-changer in the shortest format.
In addition to his prowess with the bat and ball, Quentin Sampson brings an electrifying energy to the field. His agility, speed and anticipation make him a formidable presence in the fielding department.
Whether it’s diving stops, acrobatic catches, or lightning-quick throws, Sampson’s athleticism adds a new dimension to his team’s fielding unit. His ability to create opportunities and turn matches with his fielding prowess further enhances his value as a complete cricketer.
With Sampson on the field, every run saved and every chance created becomes a testament to his commitment to excellence in all facets of the game.
Sampson’s stellar performances earned him two Man-of-the-Match awards, further cementing his status as a standout player in the tournament.
His ability to outperform seasoned campaigners who have represented the West Indies and even players who made appearance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) underscores his readiness to compete at a higher level.
All-rounder Quentin Sampson (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/April 27, 2024)
Despite not being given an opportunity to bowl in the Guyana T10 Blast for unknown reasons, Sampson is a well-capable medium-fast bowler.
His bowling style, characterised by hostility, aggression, and immense control with varied deliveries, adds another dimension to his cricketing arsenal.
This versatility makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to strengthen both their batting and bowling departments.
Over the past five years, Sampson has steadily honed his skills, becoming a more formidable and consistent performer in limited-overs cricket. His latest exploits in the Guyana T10 Blast serve as concrete evidence of his capabilities and readiness for the CPL.
His performances not only highlight his talent but also his ability to thrive under pressure and against strong competition.
As a true sports enthusiast and cricket lover, I firmly believe that Quentin Sampson’s time has come.
His remarkable performances warrant a well-deserved opportunity in the CPL, where he can showcase his talents on a larger stage.
The inclusion of Sampson in the CPL draft would not only reward his hard work and dedication, but also provide a platform for him to further elevate his game and contribute to the exciting cricketing spectacle that is the CPL.
Quentin Sampson’s extraordinary performance in the Guyana T10 Blast is a testament to his growing prowess in limited-overs cricket.
His impressive batting statistics, coupled with his potential as a bowler, make him an ideal candidate for the CPL draft.
It’s time for the cricketing fraternity to take notice and give this talented player the opportunity he has rightfully earned.
Editor’s Note: The CPL Player Draft will take place in July, with the tournament set for August 28 to October 6. The Guyana Amazon Warriors’ last set of group games, along with the playoff matches and final will be held in Guyana.
See below the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ list of retained and signed players for the 2024 season thus far