Colombo: President of the Ghana Cricket Association (GCA), Mr. Emmanuel Owusu-Ansah Asare, received the Long Service Award from the International Cricket Council (ICC) during its Annual General Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The award recognizes his extensive contributions to the development and promotion of cricket in Ghana and across Africa. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Asare was presented the trophy by Mr. Imram Khwaja, ICC Associate Nations Chair and Vice Chairman of the ICC Board. Mr. Khwaja commended Mr. Asare for his efforts in advancing the sport in Ghana. Mr. Asare's commitment to cricket spans over 20 years during which he has served in various capacities including as a player, umpire, team manager, and eventually as President of the GCA. Mr. Asare expressed his gratitude towards his board and staff for their support, which he credited for his achievements. "I would not have received this recognition without the support of my board and staff of the GCA. They have really been a pillar for th e successes we have chalked," he said following the ceremony. Mr. Asare's involvement with cricket began in 1976 as a national team player. He later became a national umpire and the team manager before ascending to higher roles within the GCA. His leadership extended beyond national boundaries as he also served as Chairperson for the Africa Cricket Association, and played significant roles in legislative development for sports in Ghana. Under his presidency, the GCA achieved notable milestones, including hosting the Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour in Ghana for the first time in 2022 and integrating cricket into the sports curriculum of the 13th African Games held in Ghana. The association also constructed turf wickets in 2023, marking a significant development from the artificial wickets previously used in the country. Furthermore, Mr. Asare has been instrumental in promoting female participation in cricket by initiating female competitions at Achimota School where he heads the P.E Department. His advocacy e fforts also led to the inclusion of cricket in the Ghana Education Services curriculum for teacher preparation in colleges of education.