Pooran inspires TSTT trainees to dream big

KAY-MARIE FLETCHER

Senior Reporter

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Nicholas Pooran is a force to be reckoned with on the field, especially when it comes to T-20 cricket. However, his impact spans beyond the game, as his dedication to inspiring young people off the field is scoring him a lot of runs as well.

Speaking to a new cohort of trainees at the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago’s (TSTT) orientation for its 2025 internship programme at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya, yesterday, Pooran shared a glimpse into his career, which hasn’t been all about runs and wickets.

After being involved in a life-threatening vehicular accident in 2015, which almost prevented him from being able to run or play the game he loves, Pooran said he fought hard and had to make a lot of sacrifices and changes in his everyday life to get back on track.

The wicket-keeper/batsman said, “I had to give up a lot of things. I had to sacrifice a lot of things. I was a young boy just growing up.

“I want to go and party. I want to go and drink. I had to sacrifice friends. I had to sacrifice the negative influences that wanted to take me out at night because I have to wake up in the morning to go do my job. I had to give up my eating habits. I had to give up all these things and I can tell you, after doing all these things, it’s really worth it in the end.”

Pooran, who recently retired from the West Indies team but remains a T20 international franchise player, added, “After all these changes, it took me six years to finally put it together. I had to understand how to become really persistent with my life, my work ethic and everything I do on that cricket field.

“The journey is very, very painful, and it doesn’t get easier, but that’s when you really have to count on yourself and trust that process and believe in yourself. The reward at the end is really satisfying. Life is not easy, but trust in yourself. Put God first, and I want to continue to encourage each single person to believe in your dreams.

“With sacrifice, dedication and hard work, your dreams could become a reality. Don’t forget that.”

According to TSTT, a total of 600 young people were selected from over 8,600 submissions for the two-week internship at the telecommunications company.

Acting CEO Keino Cox also welcomed the new interns.