Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - When the Elizabeth Styles Under-19, 50-Overs cricket competition in Berbice continued recently, defending champions Albion Community Centre were propelled into the quarterfinals on the back of scintillating innings from Balchand Baldeo and Matthew Hardyal.

Playing in their final Zone C match, Albion walloped Sand Reef by 279 runs to win the Zone. Guyana Under-19 all-rounder Balchand Baldeo slammed 203 (20×4 6×6), the competitions highest score to date.

He and Berbice Under-19 batsman Matthew Hardyal who made 104 (8×4) featured in a second wicket partnership of 323 which was largely responsible for Albion’s daunting 358-4 in 50-Overs.

The previously unbeaten Sand Reef were sent packing for 79 in reply; Berbice Under-19 off-spinner Daniel Lewis picked up 4-30. Leg-spinner Leonardo Seetayah grabbed 5-4 from 5 Overs to help Cotton Tree Die Hard restrict Blairmont Community Centre to 121.

His effort went in vain however as Cotton Tree were bowled out for 112 in turn with left arm spinner Saheed Khan taking 4-17 and Berbice Under-15 pacer Rameshwar Somwaru 3-15.

In another match involving Blairmont, Somwaru took 4-22 and off-spinner Mark Gowkarran 3-41 to help bowl out Achievers ’A’ for 135. When Blairmont replied, Achievers off-spinner Kareem Mentore grabbed 4-23 and Berbice Under-19 pacer Grisean Grant 3-29 but Blairmont managed to scrape home by one wicket.

Summarized scores: At Albion – Albion Community Centre hammered Sand Reef by 279 runs. Albion Community Centre 358-4 in 50 Overs; Balchand Baldeo 203, Matthew Hardyal 104, Azim Panlall 2-63. Sand Reef 79 in 22.3 Overs; Farzad Azeez 20, Daniel Lewis 4-30, David Latchaya 2-18.

At Cotton Tree – Blairmont Community Centre beat Cotton Tree Die Hard by 9 runs. Blairmont Community Centre 121 in 18 Overs; Nick Ramsaroop 48, Leonardo Seetayah 5-4, Adim Sheetahal 3-28. Cotton Tree Die Hard 112 in 40.1 Overs; Saheed Khan 4-17, Rameshwar Somwaru 3-15, Ramanand Ramdhan 2-37.

At Bath, Blairmont Community Centre edged Achievers ‘A’ by one wicket. Achievers ‘A’ 135 in 19 Overs; Grisean Grant 35 n.o, Rennison Mitchell 27, Rameshwar Somwaru 4-22, Mark Gowkarran 3-41, Nick Ramsaroop 2-19, Avishkar Seekarran 2-26.

Blairmont Community Centre 136-9 in 20 Overs; Avishkar Seekarran 39, Kareem Mentore 4-23, Grisean Grant 3-29, Lawrence Sears 2-20.

Teams already into the quarter finals are No. 70 Young Star, No. 72 Cut and Load, Tucber Park and Police.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The GUYTRAC 20/20 knockout cricket competition in the Upper Corentyne has reached the semifinal stages, with No. 69 Red Rose Cricket Club being the last team to qualify.

In the lone quarterfinal match played last Sunday, No 69 Red Rose defeated No 70 cricket club by 11 runs in the match that was reduced to a 17 overs affair.

No. 69 Red Rose batted first and scored 141 for 4 off their 17 overs with Tariq Chaitram slamming a belligerent 96 which included (5×4 and 4×6). Bowling for No. 70 C.C Naeem Yacoob Chris Bollers took one wicket each.

In reply No. 70 C.C made a gallant effort, but were bowled out for 130 off 16.3 overs with Latchman Roopchand top scoring with 64. Bowling for No. 69 Red Rose, O. Seeram led the way with 3 wickets, while C. Nourang and I. Khan picked up two each.

The semifinals are slated for tomorrow at the Crabwood Creek Sports Complex ground where both games are expected to be played. The matches are expected to be highly competitive and exciting affairs as all four teams are showing good form.

The CWC ground is on the smaller side when compared to other grounds in the Upper Corentyne and with a plateau of big hitters in all of the teams the matches are expected to be high scoring encounters.

In the first semifinal, No. 48 Challengers will take on No. 69 Red Rose starting at 10:00hrs, whilst in semifinal 2, No. 64 Fighting Marines will come up against Springlands at 14:00hrs. Skeldon CC have already advanced to an eliminator match which will be played against one of the semifinal winners.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Ramchand & Rohan Auto Spares Softball cricket tournament continues tomorrow with several matches.

The tournament is sponsored by Mike’s Pharmacy, Trophy Stall, Romeo Oil Seal, Motor Trend, Bel Air Rubis, Ariel Enterprise, and Nauth Motor Spares.

In the scheduled fixtures:

Enterprise ground: Pitch 1: 9:30am-Floodlight vs Industry Super Kings. 12:30pm-Enterprise Legends vs Frontliners. Pitch 2: 9:30am-Farm vs Princess Hotel. 12:30pm-Wellman vs Bel Air Rubis. Pitch 3: 9:30am-Uprisers vs Brickery. 12:30pm-Country Side vs Trophy Stall. Pitch 4: 9:30am-Blue Divas vs Sleepin. 11:00am-Karibbe Strikers vs Trophy Stall Angels. 12:30pm-Wellwoman vs 4R Lioness. 2:00pm-Karibbe Strikers vs Blue Divas.

G.N.I.C ground: 9:30am-Regal Masters vs Fishermen Masters. 12:30pm-Regal vs Warriors X1.

Parika ground: 9:30am-Speedboat vs Challengers. 12:30pm-Slingers vs Parika Defenders.

Meanwhile, in results from matches played last Sunday:

Regal Masters defeated Industry Super Kings by 3 wickets. Industry 129 for 7 off 20 overs – Ishwar Persaud 36, Mukesh Persaud 21 not out; Troy Kippins 2 for 15 and Clyde Butts 2 for 34. Regal 132 for 8 off 18.3 overs – Jaga Bhoj 51 not out, Linden Lyght 21; Jagdesh Persaud 2 for 21, Ishwar Persaud 2 for 25 and Rahaman Khan 2 for 26.

Floodlights defeat Frontliners by 3 runs. Floodlights 224 for 8 off 20 overs – John Sumir 134 not out and Richard Persaud 23; Gary Mickey 4 for 36. Frontliners 221 all out in 19.5 overs -Mahendra Dhanpersaud 85 not out, Lionell Persaud 49 and Linden McCoy 42; Raghunandan Narine 4 for 27.

Wellwoman def. Blue Divas by 71 runs. Wellwoman 134 for 3 off 10 overs – Latoya Smith 81 not out and Amanda Bob-Semple 35. Blue Divas 63 for 7 off 10 overs – Sangeeta Sawh 26; Roneka Isaacs 4 for 7 and Zole Telford 2 for 17.

Trophy Stall Angels def. 4R Lioness by 24 runs. Trophy Stall 103 for 5 off 10 overs – Heema Singh 28; Ruth George 3 for 17. 4R Lioness 69 all out – Ruth George 18.

Slingers def. Wellman by 48 runs. Slingers 192 for 9 off 20 overs – Rudy Rodrigues 57, Danny Mohanram 26, Dennis Mangra 23; H. Hermand 3 for 18. Wellman 144 all out in 18.1 overs – Grieg DeFranco 31; Hafeez Samad 4 for 7, Mohamed Rafeek 2 for 8.

Regal def. Wolf Warriors by 19 runs. Regal 199 for 7 off 20 overs – Martin Dutchin 51, Patrick Rooplall 29, Quacy Joseph 26; Mark Harold 2 for 23.  Wolf Warriors 180 for 8 off 20 overs, Ricardo Adams 38, Lincoln Leander 21; P. Motilall 3 for 28 and S. Boodhoo 2 for 22.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Albion Community Centre are the 2013 Tenelec Inc Under-17 Cricket Champion in Berbice after defeating defending champs Rose Hall Town Bakewell by 9 wickets in the two-day final played over last weekend at the Port Mourant Ground.

In the match, Rose Hall Town Bakewell, winning the toss and batting first soon found themselves at 2 for 9 by the 3rd over, but Jason Anderson helped their revival by putting on 22 for the 3rd wicket with Brandon Prasad (16) and then another valuable 26 for the 4th wicket with Verenmootoo Seawasane (12).

However, after that, left arm spinner Joshua Harrichand took four consecutive wickets very quickly, including Anderson for 23, to reduce Rose Hall from 57 for 3 to 72 for 7. Kevelon Anderson (35 not out) and Calvin Jeffrey (25) averted further disaster by putting on 63 between them for the 8th wicket that was largely responsible for Rose Hall making 138 all out. Harrichand ended with 5 for 22 from 23.3 overs and off spinner Asif Ally 2 for the 31 from 15 overs.

When Albion began their 1st innings response, they lost Adrian Sukhwa (5) at 7 for 1 but Ritesh Umroa and Matthew Hardyal did well to put on 60 for the 2nd wicket before Umroa fell for 35. They lost two more wickets quickly after that, reducing them from 67 for 1 to 69 for four.

Hardyal stood firm however and did well to put on 30 with Kevindra Persaud (14) before both of them fell with the score on 99, Hardyal going for 41. From 99 for 6, Asif Ally (24) and Josiah Dhanai (34) eased Albion past the first innings target by putting on 49 for the 7 the wicket that helped them reach 163 all out. Bowling for Rose Hall Town, off spinner, Denzel Sinclair took 4 for 23 from 21 overs and off spinner Joshua Gobin 2 for 18 from 7.5 overs.

Facing a first innings deficit of 25, Rose Hall Town began their second innings with a promising opening stand of 19 from Jason Anderson (6) and Kevlon Anderson (11) but then medium pacer Stephen Kamaludin and Asif Ally picked up 2 wickets each very quickly to see them reduce to 25 for 4.

They never really recovered from that setback and were eventually bowled out for 66 this time. For Albion Asif Ally took 4 for 25 from 10 overs, Harrichand 2 for 11 from 4.2 overs and Stephen Kamaludin 2 for 13 from 6 overs.

Albion Community Centre, needing a mere 42 for victory in their 2nd innings, reached the target with ease, just losing Ritesh Umroa for 8 with the score on 20. Adrian Sukhwa with 34 not out and Matthew Hardyal with 3 not out saw them to 45 for victory.

Skipper Harrichand was named man of the match. Anil Beharry, first vice president of the Berbice Cricket Board thanked the sponsor, Mr Bobby Deonarine and Mr Tom Gruntzel of Tenelec Inc out of Washington, USA for their investment in Berbice cricket. He added that their intervention has helped produce more cricketers for Berbice, Guyana and West Indies. Names such as Narsingh Deonarine, Devindra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Assad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Gudakesh Motie and Shimron Hetmyer amongst many others are products of the sponsorship.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Guyana Chronicle article.

TORONTO – They may be classified as the whipping boys of Inter-county cricket in their homeland but Essequibo proved otherwise in their adopted country when they whipped Berbice by five wickets in the final of the Ontario Masters Over-40 Inter-county softball tournament, played last Sunday at the Littles ground, Scarborough.

Led by brilliant and responsible half-century by former Essequibo Inter-county player Jaimini Singh, Essequibo recorded a nail-biting win over their opponents, reaching 145 for five with a mere four balls to spare after limiting Berbice to 139 for two in their allotted 20 overs.

The left-handed Singh, who skippered Essequibo during the 1980’s and was also a member of Guyana national squad in 1989 received solid support from fellow opener Amarnauth Sookhu who stroked a fluent 39 which included three fours and a similar number of sixes.

Singh and Sookhu added a valuable 82 in 13 overs but with the former’s dismissal, Berbice were back in with a great chance as the run-rate dropped considerably. However, Iman Ghafour brought life back into the Essequibo supporters with two massive sixes towards the end, thereby securing victory.

The experienced Singh counted four fours and two sixes before holding out in the deep, attempting another boundary.

Earlier, Berbice were led to their challenging total through a brisk knock from former Guyana and Canadian all-rounder Sunil Dhaniram whose 39 included three fours and two towering sixes.

Rudy Bhooplall captured three wickets for 10 runs from his four overs while Ghafour also claimed three for 20.

At the presentation ceremony, which followed, players from both teams received medals while the winners took home the championship trophy.

Essequibo’s Sookhu, who scored a half-century in the opening round match, was voted his side’s Most Valuable Player while Dhaniram copped the honour for Berbice.

The tournament was sponsored by Dr. Rudy Singh and Dr. Raj Singh. Demerara fielded two teams (East and West), both being eliminated in the opening round.

Among those on hand at the impressive presentation ceremony was president of the Masters League Jai Singh who was high in praise for the team spirit displayed by the competing teams in this the ninth year of the tournament.

Singh also expressed special thanks to the sponsors for their continuing input and the teams for their participation in the annual tournament.

Former president Azeem Khan, who now holds the post of vice-president also lauded the efforts of the players and the organisers for the successful running of the tournament, while Essequibo’s skipper Singh acknowledged that his side deserved to come out victorious since they played wonderful cricket.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) extends congratulations to Leon Johnson on making his debut to Test cricket; opening the batting for the West Indies in the second Test match against Bangladesh in St.Luica.

Johnson replaced West Indies prolific opener, Chris Gayle who missed the game for personal reasons. Johnson made use of the opportunity as he registered a crafty half century in the first innings (66) which featured in a century opening stand with Craig Braithwaite.

The GCB is extremely proud of this promising 27 year old left handed batsman. We believe the Guyana 2013 captain has been ready for the challenge at the highest level for some time now. We are elated that he is given the chance to start his journey as a West Indies Test player.

We believe he has the right attitude and discipline to compliment his skills and talent as a top cricketer. We fully support him and are urging Guyanese and West Indies supporters to rally hard behind him as he seeks to score well consistently and hold his place in the team.

Leon Johnson has been playing cricket at the first class level since the age of 16 when Guyana took on Leeward Islands at Enmore in 2004. He also captained the West Indies Under-19 in the World Cup in 2005-06.

His consistent performances saw him making his ODI debut in the tri -series involving Canada and Bermuda in 2008 where he scored 51 in the second match. He played three matches in all.

The executives, members and staff of the GCB wish Johnson well as a West Indies player. We urge him to do justice to his selection and continue to make us proud.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The 2014 Elizabeth Styles Under-19, 50-over cricket competition in Berbice continued recently with defending champions Albion Community Centre becoming the latest team to reach the quarter-finals of the competition, joining Number 70 Young Star, Number 72 Cut and Load, Tucber Park and Police.

In their final Zone C match, they defeated Sand Reef by 279 runs to end up as winners of that zone, thereby earning the right to move forward.

For Albion, Guyana Under-19 all-rounder Balchand Baldeo slammed 203, which is the competition’s highest score so far. The innings included 20 fours and six sixes. Baldeo and Berbice Under-19 batsman Matthew Hardyal, who made 104 (8x4s), featured in a second wicket partnership of 323, which was largely responsible for Albion’s daunting 358-4 in 50 overs.

The previously unbeaten Sand Reef could only respond with 79 in reply with Berbice Under-19 off-spinner Daniel Lewis picking up 4-30.

Elsewhere, leg-spinner Leonardo Seetayah took 5-4 from five overs to help Cotton Tree Die Hard restrict Blairmont community Centre to 121. His effort went in vain however, as Cotton Tree were bowled out for 112 in turn with left-arm spinner Saheed Khan taking 4-17 and Berbice Under-15 pacer Rameshwar Somwaru 3-15.

In another match involving Blairmont, Somwaru took 4-22 and off-spinner Mark Gowkarran 3-41 to help bowl at Achievers A for 135. When Blairmont replied, Achievers off-spinner Kareem Mentore took 4-23 and Berbice Under-19 pacer Grisean Grant 3-29, but Blairmont managed to scrape home by one wicket.

Below are the summarised scores from the games.

At Albion: Albion Community Centre beat Sand reef by 279 runs. Albion Community Centre 358-4 in 50 overs (Balchand Baldeo 203, Matthew Hardyal 104, Azim Panlall 2-63) Sand Reef 79 in 22.3 overs (Farzad Azeez 20, Daniel Lewis 4-30, David Latchaya 2-18).

At Cotton Tree: Blairmont Community Centre beat Cotton Tree Die Hard by nine runs. Blairmont Community Centre 121 in 18 overs (Nick Ramsaroop 48, Leonardo Seetayah 5-4, Adim Sheetahal 3-28)

Cotton Tree Die Hard 112 in 40.1 overs (Saheed Khan 4-17, Rameshwar Somwaru 3-15, Ramanand Ramdhan 2-37).

At Bath: Blairmont Community Centre beat Achievers A by one wicket. Achievers A 135 in 19 overs (Grisean Grant 35*, Rennison Mitchell 27, Rameshwar Somwaru 4-22, Mark Gowkarran 3-41, Nick Ramsaroop 2-19, Avishkar Seekarran 2-26) Blairmont Community Centre 136-9 in 20 overs (Avishkar Seekarran 39, Kareem Mentore 4-23, Grisean Grant 3-29, Lawrence Sears 2-20).

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Demerara’s quest to cop the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior Inter-county 50-over title ended in heartbreak as a gutsy Berbice unit produced a clinical display in fading lights to win by 10 runs in the final on Saturday at Albion.

After the game was reduced to 26 overs due to early morning rains, the hosts were first reduced to a decent total of 163 all out in 25.4 overs, but relied on a brilliant bowling display under pressure to stop the visitors at 153-9 in 26 overs in a nerve-wracking contest.

Earlier, Paul Wintz (3-40), Robin Bacchus (2-24), Steven Jacobs (2-31) and Raj Nanan (1-18) managed to restrict the Ancient County.

Berbice made a disastrous start after they were asked to bat first, losing Kandasammy Surujanrine (0), caught Trevon Griffith at first slip off pacer Paul Wintz from the third ball of the innings. Fellow opener Anthony Bramble and Devon Clements were quite sedate with both batsmen looking determined to get their eyes in against the new ball.

However, with Demerara skipper Christopher Barnwell opting for a pace/spin attack from the onset, left-arm spinner Nanan struck in his third over, trapping Bramble leg before wicket for 12.

After skipper Narsingh Deonarine and Clements (30) put together 34 runs for the third wicket, Jacobs accounted for the latter at 69-3.

Rajiv Ivan (10) was also dismissed by Jacobs, but Deonarine provided some semblance of resistance to the visitors attack and cracked a top score of 44, which included three fours and one six before he was dismissed.

Jonathan Foo (10), VeerasammyPermaul (12) and Gudakesh Motie (12) were the other batsmen to reached double digits before the innings came to a close.

In the run chase, the hosts’ bowlers bowled a tight line to contain the Demerara openers at less than six runs an over.

Andrew Lyght Jnr (17) and Trevon Griffith (44) were watchful in their approach picking up singles and twos instead of the usual flurry of boundaries.

Lyght Jnr, who was given a life off pacer Romario Shepherd, failed to capitalise on the opportunity, as

Shepherd got some much needed retribution when he disturbed the stumps of the right-hander.

Deonarine proved to be a handful on the gripping surface and removed Bacchus for 25 before Permaul uprooted the leg and off stumps of Barnwell.

Things got shoddier for the visitors with the lost of Griffith, Rajendra Chandrika (12), Shemroy Barrington (1) and Zaheer Mohamed (13).

With the lights fading, Demerara were still in search 34 runs off four overs, but Chanderpaul Hemraj (10), Steven Jacobs (1) failed to add any sort of contribution.

Requiring 23 off the last over, Wintz and Nanan were unable to cross the finishing line.

Permaul (3-32), Deonarine (2-23), Joseph (2-28) were the most successful bowlers for Berbice.

At the presentation ceremony, Essequibo opener Kevon Boodie (259 runs) won the award for the most runs in the tournament. Deonarine copped the best bowlers’ award with 10 wickets and also the Most Valuable Player award.

Demerara’s Shemroy Barrington won the best wicketkeeper award with opener Trevon Griffith being adjudged the best fielder in the tournament.

The players will now switch focus to the Four-Day version, which commences on September 18.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) continued with the unveiling of a Portrait of Berbice’ greatest cricketer, Rohan ‘Bobolal’ Kanhai.

The unveiling took place in the main hall of the historic Port Mourant Cricket Club (PMCC) pavilion and was witnessed by officials of the BCB, PMCC, GUYSUCO, relatives of Kanhai and students of the Corentyne Comprehensive Secondary School.

BCB Diamond Jubilee Celebrations Committee Chairman, Hilbert Foster noted that Rohan Kanhai was not only Berbice’s greatest player but one of the best that ever played at the international level.

Foster disclosed that Kanhai was among the Test players honoured by the BCB at the Golden Jubilee Celebration launching August 31 and later this month, the PMCC pavilion would be renamed in his honour.

Efforts are also being made by the BCB to have the Port Mourant Public Road renamed, Rohan Kanhai Drive.

BCB President Keith Foster, urged the students who attended the ceremony, to be proud of the heroes of Berbice cricket as they were part of the proud tradition of the Ancient County. Kanhai, the elder Foster said, was and still is a positive role model to all Berbicians.

Kanhai along with John Trim, Basil Butcher, Joseph Solomon and Ivan Madray laid the foundation for other Berbicians to play at the highest level and were outstanding ambassadors for Berbice and Guyana.

The BCB President stated that one of the major achievements of his administration was the honouring of most of Berbice cricket heroes on and off the field. He also praised the role Bookers and GUYSUCO have played in the development of the game in Berbice.

GUYSUCO’s Community Development Officer for the Port Mourant ground, Orwin Mangru and Godywn Allicock of PMCC also spoke at the ceremony. Mangru noted that his company was proud to be associated with the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary.

While noting that the PMCC is a shadow of its outstanding past, Mangru expressed confidence that the club that produced legends the likes of Kanhai, Butcher and Solomon would once again rise to the top. Allicock, Secretary of PMCC expressed gratitude to the BCB for honouring Kanhai and disclosed that the PMCC was honoured that it had produced Berbice’s greatest cricket hero.

Niece of Kanhai, Ms. Hanaria Sahadupal shared that her uncle was very proud to be honoured and praised the BCB for recognizing and honouring her uncle. Ms. Sahadupal and her husband Francis, later unveiled the portrait to great applause from those present.

Kanhai played a total of 79 Tests matches for the West Indies after making his test debut against England in 1957. He scored 6227 Test runs at an average of 47.53 with 15 centuries and 28 fifties. His highest Test score was a brilliant 256 against India.

Overall, Rohan Kanhai scored a total of 34,183 runs at the first class, List A and ODI levels with a combined 93 centuries and 158 fifties. He was appointed Captain of the West Indies for the 1972/73 tour of Australia to the Caribbean and retired from Test cricket after the Caribbean tour of England in 1974. He later played a major role in assisting the Clive Lloyd led West Indies team to lift the 1975 World Cup trophy by scoring a crucial 55 in the final.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Cricinfo article.

Gros Islet, St Lucia - West Indies batsman Leon Johnson admitted he had been hesitant to ask for a review after he was given out for 66 on the opening day of the second Test against Bangladesh in St Lucia, and said the uncertainty cost him a chance to score a century on Test debut.

Johnson was given lbw off left-arm spinner Taijul Islam in the 53rd over of the West Indies innings. Replays suggested the ball would have missed leg stump but Johnson failed to ask for a review within the 15-second window and was ruled out by the umpire.

"I would have loved to have gone on and got a better score but I had a look at the replay and I was a bit too slow in calling for the review," Johnson said. "I wasn't very sure and my partner [Kirk Edwards] wasn't very sure, either. I was a bit hesitant; I didn't want to waste one of the team's reviews. There was probably a hundred there for the taking, the pitch got better for batting. Next time, I'll look to cash in."

Picked as a replacement for Chris Gayle, who skipped the Test for personal reasons, Johnson opened the innings and was involved in a 143-run stand with Kraigg Brathwaite. Their partnership laid a strong platform for West Indies and the pair of Darren Bravo and Shivnarine Chanderpaul capitalised on it to guide the side to 246 for 3 at close of play.

Johnson, who has batted in the middle order for most of his career, said he had to adapt mentally to fit into the role of an opener, because the pitch had offered assistance to the Bangladesh bowlers in the first session.

"I started out probably a little slower, given that I was opening the batting," he said. "There was a bit of assistance there for the seamers early on so I thought like an opener and gave the bowlers their hour and their session, and tried to cash in after lunch.

"I have opened in three first-class games before. I do it sometimes, opening in club cricket at home. It's a whole different kettle of fish doing it in a Test match, though. As a batter, you have to be versatile. Sometimes, you may be asked to open the batting."

Johnson made his ODI debut in August 2008, in a triangular series against Canada and Bermuda, and played three games before he was sidelined from the West Indies squad. He has, however, performed well for West Indies A over the last two seasons, scoring runs on the tour to India and a making first-class century against the visiting Sri Lanka A side last year.

Johnson said that despite the long gap he had spent out of the team, he had not given up on playing for West Indies: "I never had negative thoughts that I wouldn't be involved again in West Indies cricket. I have been on the sideline for six years but I've been about the A team for about four years, now. Hard work has got me here, and self-belief."

First Punlished On Cricinfo.

By CMC.

GROS ISLET, St Lucia – The West Indies Cricket Board on Saturday honoured former president Sir Julian Hunte, for his contribution to the game across the region.

Sir Julian, served as president from 2007 to 2013 and also served as a Director of the International Cricket Council.

The function which was hosted by the WICB and attended by several local and regional dignitaries as well as West Indies cricket legends, was held at the Beausejour Cricket Ground.

Sir Julian was hailed as a “St Lucian hero” and also praised for his calm guidance and leadership during a challenging period in West Indies cricket. The 74-year-old, who is a former St Lucia Foreign Minister, said his greatest joy was being on hand to see the West Indies team win the ICC World T20 trophy in Sri Lanka in October, 2012.

“I have a love for cricket – cricket at all levels from the grassroots level to the international level. I have a special love for West Indies cricket and I am happy to make a contribution to the game at all levels,” Sir Julian told the audience.

“I served because of the love of the game and I was happy to contribute in any capacity, in any way I can.

“One of my greatest privileges was to be there on that night when the West Indies team won the ICC World T20 tournament. The outpouring of emotions and the celebrations we saw filled my heart with great joy. It was a wonderful triumph and a true outpouring of West Indian joy.”

Sir Julian was presented with two special awards by Dave Cameron, president of the WICB and Clive Lloyd, the most successful captain in the history of West Indies cricket and who now serves as convenor of selectors.

“His service to cricket in St Lucia and in leading the growth and transformation of cricket in the Windward Islands is legendary. At the regional level he has given yeoman and dedicated service to the West Indies cricket board for 33 years, seven of which were as president of the WICB,” Cameron said.

“His unwavering commitment to the development and advancement of the game is known and recognized throughout the length and breadth of West Indies cricket. His legacy is one of selfless dedication to West Indies cricket being the force it ought to be on the world stage.”

Cameron added: “We take this occasion to salute and honour Sir Julian for his untiring and unrelenting services to our regional sport.”

Also in attendance were legends Sir Curtly Ambrose, Sir Richie Richardson and Courtney Walsh, as well as veteran West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Test captain Denesh Ramdin.

Acting Prime Minister of St Lucia, Philip J Pierre along with Sports Minister Shaun Edwards, were also in attendance.

By CMC.

Jamaica Star article.

Kingston, Jamaica - New chairman of the West Indies selection panel, Clive Lloyd, believes loyalty should be the order of the day as players contemplate decisions to either represent the West Indies against England or play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) next April.

The West Indies, currently ranked eighth in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings, are scheduled to face world number three England in a three-match Test series beginning on April 9 and ending May 5, 2015.

The matches, however, are set to clash with the ICC-approved IPL, which is held between April and June each year.

"What we are saying is that anytime we have our cricket we would like you to be here. You must play in our cricket. And, hope the players take it as it on board," said Lloyd.

"What we are asking the players to do (ahead of the England series) is to show loyalty, and that West Indies cricket comes first. I know some people may not like how that sounds, but our cricket has got to be first."

The IPL, arguably the most lucrative cricket domestic tournament in the world, attracts several of the West Indies leading cricketers on a yearly basis.

Explosive opener Chris Gayle, mystery spinner Sunil Narine, stylish batsman Marlon Samuels, and influential all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, head the list of players.

However, with the West Indies looking to re-establish itself as a world cricket powerhouse, and England offering several ICC Test rankings points, it is anticipated that these players will be asked to largely forego their 2015 IPL ambitions.

This is expected to put the players in a spot of bother given that what some players earn via an annual West Indies player contract is sometimes three or more times less than what they would earn playing for their IPL teams.

"We can understand the situation (of the players), however, it is not about earning all the money," said Lloyd.

First Published In The Jamaica Star.

Ontario, Canada - Guyanese team Fuzion surged to an efficient seven-wicket victory over Sunrisers in the 2014 Ontario Roundarm Softball Cricket Association (ORSCA) T10 final recently at Firgrove ground.

Sunrisers appeared first at the crease after winning the toss and rattled up a challenging 108-3 from the allocation of 10-overs while Fuzion, in response, achieved the target in 9.1 overs losing only three wickets in the process.

Watched by a vocal crowd in glorious sunshine, Fuzion was indebted to Kumar Doodnauth’s aggressive 37 and their Most Valuable Player Sanjeev Ramnarine’s cameo, unbeaten 29.

Doodnauth struck five massive sixes while Ramnarine clobbered three of them and sealed the deal to spark will celebrations among his teammates.

Davindra Sukhdeo also played an important innings by scoring 18 to support the rampant Doodnauth and Ramnarine.

Earlier, Sunrisers’ innings was built around a handsome, undefeated 38 from Rajesh Diaram, who cleared the boundary on four occasions while veteran batsman Jaimini Singh and Safraz Wahab chipped in with 25 and 24 respectively.

Vijay Prashad proved his batting capability too by making a quick-fire 17 as Azeez Baksh captured two wickets for 16 runs from his maximum two overs.

Meanwhile, at the presentation session, the victorious side was presented with a trophy for their outstanding effort while skipper Ramnarine also received an award for his sterling, match-winning performance.

Apart from Ramnarine’s on-field display, he is currently the Vice-President of the Association serving in the capacity for the first time.

He expressed delight with his team’s showing and congratulated the runners-up side while he reserved special mentions to his fellow executives to run off another satisfactory T10 tournament.

“I [am] definitely delighted with my performance which eventually helped my team to win; I think the guys played a ‘big’ part and we are deserving champion,” Ramnarine declared. 

“As an executive, I am also pleased to see another great tournament; thanks to the participating teams, an indication of the roundarm bowling making good progress.”

Before his conclusion, he also took the opportunity to announce that the regular 20-over final is slated for September 20th at a venue to be named soon. See More.

Guyana Chronicle article.

Georgetown, Guyana - In sweltering heat and on a heavy outfield Port Mourant Cricket Club (PMCC) made light work over their hosts Blairmont Cricket Club to come away with a 53 run victory in their Berbice Cricket Board/Berbice River Bridge Company-sponsored first division 50-overs knockout competition on Sunday.

Also recording an opening-round victory were West Berbice who humiliated tournament debutants by 207 runs, thanks to Quacy McPherson’s ton and a mean spell of fast bowling from national fast bowler Raun Johnson.

At Blairmont, the visiting PMCC won the toss and chose to bat first on an under-prepared track due to the unavailability of ground staff at the venue, which resulted in the match starting late and being reduced to 45 overs-a-side.

Thanks to an 80-run third-wicket partnership between Lloydel Lewis 62 (2×4, 2×6) and skipper Devendra Thakurdeen 33 (2×4), PMCC rallied from 16 for 2 to 96 for 2 before being bowled out for 161 which was scored off 39.1 overs.

Waqar Hassan engineered the visitors’ batting collapse, by claiming 5 for 21, backed by Kevon Jahawir’s 2 for 46 while bowling for Blairmont, who in reply were bowled out for 108 off 36.2 overs, as only Deryck Prashad 42 (5×4) and Avishkar Sewkarran 22 offered resistance to the bowling of Amir Khan (3 for 10), Thakurdeen (3 for 14) and Dimitri Cameron who bowled with aggression to take 2 for 23.

At the D’Edward ground, the home team had an introduction to first division cricket in the Ancient County at the hands of West Berbice and one they would wish to forget very quickly, having dominated at the second division level for a number of years.

Winning the toss and opting to field first, D’Edward saw McPherson striking 11 fours and six sixes in his 105, which was ably supported by Andrew Dutchin’s 58 (3×4, 3×6), as the duo added in excess of 100 runs for the second wicket, after Arthley Bailey was dismissed off the first ball without scoring.

Kenje Sedoc chipped in with 24 (2×6, 1×4) for West Berbice, who were bowled out for 267 off 45.3 overs, with Devindra Singh (3 for 41), Christian France (3 for 49), Navindra Rampersaud (2 for 38) and Deryck Lalsa (2 for 43) doing the damage with the ball for D’Edward.

In their turn at the wicket, the home team faced a red-hot Johnson who bowled with pace and aggression to support Krishendat Ramoo (3 for 11) and Keith Fraser 3 for 16, with his 3 for 25 and they crumbled for 60 for 9 when their innings was declared close.

Only Ramesh Boodram 27 (3×6) was the lone batsman to reach double figures, as the experienced Eon Abel did not show up for the contest.

At Cumberland, Universal Solutions Bermine on the back of a solid all-round performance from Romario Shepherd-DeJonge, recorded a comfortable four-wicket victory over a game Young Warriors lineup to not only earn a bye in the second round, but land themselves a place in the semifinals as well.

Batting first, Young Warriors were bowled out for 164 from 46.2 overs, with Seon Hetmyer 33 (2×6, 1×4), Ishwar Singh 31 (1×4) and Waheid Edwards 23 leading their batting even as Shepherd-DeJonge grabbed 4 for 36 and got support from Steven Latcha (3 for 30) and Niall Smith (2 for 32).

In their reply, Universal Solutions Bermine struggled up to 70 for 4 following the departure of Shemroy Barrington for 36 (3×4, 1×6), at which point Shepherd-DeJonge came to the wicket and struck five fours and three sixes in his unbeaten 56 which took them to 167 for 6 off 41.2 overs, while Linden Austin (2 for 13) and Vishal Mohabir (2 for 53) bowled well for Young Warriors.

At Edinburgh, the home team were arrested and sent packing out of the tournament by a disciplined Police lineup, who came away with a three-wicket victory, despite some resistance.

Batting first after being asked to do so, Edinburgh were bowled out for 123 in 28.2 overs, as only Joseph Giddings 33 and Jerome Andrews 31 resisted the bowling efforts of Kwesi Mickle (5 for 32), Rocky Hutson (3 for 28) and Carl Campbell (2 for 10).

In their turn at the wicket, Police scored 126 for 7 off 20 overs, led by Kurt Griffith’s unbeaten 28, 23 from Ellon Shultz and 22 from Michael Campbell, as Jerome Andrews, Shafeek Khan and Michael Sampson took two wickets each for 20, 22 and 30 runs respectively to restrict the lawmen before their win.

At the Skeldon ground, the home team were handed a humiliating nine-wicket defeat at the hands of a purposeful-looking Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets lineup, who saw their hosts win the toss and decide to bat first but they were bowled out for 154 off 31.2 overs.

Charles Frank 32, Junior Blair 23, Sherwyn Murray 22 and Parmanand Narine 21 led Skeldon’s batting with Shawn Pereira 4 for 48 and Royston Crandon 2 for 37 did the damage with the ball for RHTGG, who in their turn at the wicket raced to 155 for 1 off 23 overs.

Delbert Hicks struck an unbeaten 85 (10×4, 2×6) and Jason Sinclair an even unbeaten half-century that included four fours, as they added 130 from 10 overs following the demise of Crandon (8) at 25 for 1 in the seventh over of their innings.

The final first-round match will be contested this Saturday between Guytrac Upper Corentyne and Bush Lot Rising Star at the Number 69 ground, with the winner playing Albion, who drew a bye in the first round, in Sunday’s second-round fixture at Albion.

In the other second-round fixtures PMCC will take on Police and West Berbice will face Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets. The venues for both matches will be decided by the BCB’s Competitions Committee.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Having completed their limited overs version last Saturday, in which Berbice came out on top over their nemesis Demerara, the four-day version of this year’s Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) senior men Inter-County competition is set to bowl off on Thursday with two first–round matches at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) grounds.

In the first round, 50-Over champions Berbice will clash with Demerara at GCC while Essequibo will meet the GCB Development Squad at DCC, with Essequibo and Berbice doing battle at DCC in the second round from September 24 to 27, which will also see the GCB Development Squad come up against Demerara at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

The third and final round will get under way on September 30 and run until October 3, wherein the GCB Development Squad will do battle with Berbice at the Wales Community Centre ground and Demerara and Essequibo will meet at GCC. All matches bowl off at 09:30hrs each day unless stipulated otherwise by the match referee, in the event of rain.

Meanwhile, former Guyana and West Indies Under-19 skipper Steven Jacobs has been entrusted with the captaincy of the GCB Development Squad, which competed in the limited overs version of the Inter-county tournament as the National Under-19 unit.

While several players, including historic-winning Under-19 skipper Brian Sattaur, first class openers Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Shimron Hetmyer, spin twins Balchand Baldeo and Shiraz Ramcharran have been retained, only one player who was a member of Sattaur’s unit when Guyana completed the Regional youth double last month was axed.

That player is Akil Wallace of Essequibo, while David Latchaya, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Daniel Basdeo and Yatesh Dhanpaul join Jacobs in the squad, which will be coached by Adrian Amsterdam and his two assistant coaches Michael Franco-Hyles and Julian Moore.

Berbice also made changes to their Narsingh Deonarine-led lineup, including Royston Crandon and Steven Latcha at the expense of Krishendat Ramoo and Rajiv Ivan, while for Demerara, Vishal ‘Cheesy’ Singh has been handed the captaincy with Christopher Barnwell as his deputy.

Andrew Lyght Jr is the lone casualty from the side even though Jacobs, Hemraj and Dhanpaul have been transferred to the GCB Developmental Squad, with the new faces being Singh, Randolph Knights, Gavin Moriah and Joseph Perry.

The squads are as follow:

Demerara: Trevon Griffith, Rajendra Chandrika, Shemroy Barrington, Christopher Barnwell (v-captain), Raj Nannan, Zaheer Mohamed, Ameer Khan, Randolph Knights, Paul Wintz, Seon Daniels, Vishal Singh (captain), Gavin Moriah, Joseph Perry, and Robin Bacchus. The coach is Garvin Nedd and the manager is Clive Grimmond.

Berbice: Kandasammy Surujnarine, Seon Hetmyer, Narsingh Deonarine (captain), Devon Clements, Royston Crandon, Jonathan Foo, Anthony Bramble, Jason Sinclair, Veerasammy Permaul (v-captain), Steven Latcha, Gudakesh Motie, Romario Shepherd, Raun Johnson, and Keon Joseph. The coach is Hubern Evans and the manager is Albert Smith

Essequibo: Anthony Adams (captain), Ricardo Adams (v-captain), Royan Fredericks, Kevon Boodie, Royston Alkins Hemchand Persaud, Parmesh Parsotam, Tulsieram Premnauth, Shivindra Hemraj, Keon Davis, Brian Herbert, Mark Gonsalves, Mark Tyrell, and Ricardo Peters. The coach is Vibert Johnson and the manager is Leroy Hall.

GCB Development Squad: Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Shimron Hetmyer, Kemo Paul, Shiraz Ramcharran, Akshay Homraj, David Latchaya, Damion Waldron, Steven Sankar, Daniel Basdeo, Nial Smith, Keon Morris, Steven Jacobs (captain), Kemol Savory, Yatesh Dhanpaul, Brian Sattaur, Balchand Baldeo, Renaldo Ali-Mohamed. The coach is Adrian Amsterdam, assistant coaches are Julian Moore and Michael Hyles, and the manager is David Black.

First Published In The Guyana Chronicle.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The West Demerara 40 over cricket competition continued on Sunday with two lopsided games at various grounds throughout West Demerara.

The first game at Joe Vieira Park saw Independence ‘A’ topping Sports Club by 116 runs to win the game.

Independence ‘A’ took first strike and batted their way to 204 runs off 34.3 overs with Deon Samuels playing a crucial role with the bat to top score with 56 runs.

Devon Mohabir and Dion Allert all got good starts with 30 runs each but failed to make the most of their opportunity with the bat.

Narish Persaud was the pick of the bowlers for Sports Club bowing six overs for 24 runs while picking up two wickets.

In the run chase, Sports Club was only able to accumulate a measly score of 88 all out off 30.3 overs as Paul Persaram top scored with 28 runs.

Ray Benjamin was in top form with the ball for Independence ‘A’ picking up a five-for while only giving away 24 runs off 7.3 overs. Mahesh Dhanpaul also bowled well with figures of 16 runs for four wickets off six overs.

Meanwhile at the Wales Community Centre Ground, Wales CDC ‘A’ took advantage of their club counterparts Wales CDC ‘B’ to win by 272 runs.

Wales CDC ‘A’ took to the crease first and amassed a high score of 407 for seven off their allotted amount of overs.

Ramish Thaikur ton of 114 along with Chandrika Persaud’s score of 100 led the way for Wales CDC ‘A’ with the bat. Randy Yankhana also had 66 runs to add to the massive score.

Azad Ally was the only bowler that was successful against the onslaught of the batsmen as he picked up four wickets for 62 runs off eight overs.

Wales CDC ‘B’ in reply was only able to manage a paltry 135 all out off 27.2 overs as their batsmen was clearly lacking experience against the ‘A’ side attack.

Vishnu Sue gave little away with his bowling, picking up four wickets for 28 runs off seven overs while bowling two maiden overs.

Persaud after scoring a stroke filled century, was effective with the ball, notching three wickets for 19 runs off seven overs while bowling one maiden to end the game.

Games in the tournament are expected to continue every weekend at carious grounds across the West Demerara region.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Guyana Times article.

Georgetown, Guyana - The 2014 Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI) First Division 50-over knockout cricket competition in the Ancient County got off to a bright start on Sunday with former Guyana Under-15 batsman Quacy McPherson hitting the first century of this year’s tournament.

He slammed 105 for West Berbice in their match against D’Edward. His knock, which included 11 fours and six sixes, together with 58 (2x4s, 3x6s) from Andrew Dutchin saw West Berbice to 267 in 45.2 overs. West Berbice then proceeded to bowl out D’Edward for a paltry 60 in their response with Guyana pacer Raun Johnson, Berbice off-spinner Krishnadat Ramoo and medium-pacer Keith Fraser picking up three wickets each.

Berbice pacer Romario Shepherd took 4-36 from nine overs, which together with 3-30 from former Guyana off-spinner Steve Latcha, helped Universal Solution Bermine restrict Young Warriors to 164 all out in 46.2 overs. In Bermine’s response, after former Guyana batsman Shemroy Barrington fell for a chancy 36 leaving them precariously placed at 70-4, Shepherd came in and took charge, slamming 56 not out (5x4s ,3x6s) to guide Bermine to victory with four wickets to spare.

Former Berbice leg-spinner Shawn Pereira took 4-48 from nine overs to help Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets bowl out Skeldon Community Centre for 154 in 31.2 overs. Rose Hall Town in reply lost Guyana all-rounder Royston Crandon for eight at 25-1, but former Guyana wicketkeeper/batsman Delbert Hicks slammed 85 not out (10x4s, 2x6s) and former Berbice wicketkeeper/batsman Jason Sinclair 50 not out (4x4s) to feature in an unbroken second wicket stand of 130 runs made in 16 overs to see Rose Hall Town to a nine-wicket win.

Former Guyana Under-19 all-rounder Loyydel Lewis scored 62 (3x4s, 1×6) to see Port Mourant Universal DVD to 161 in 41.1 overs against Blairmont Community Centre, whose former Berbice Under-19 left-arm spinner Waqar Hassan picked up 5-21 from 8.1 overs for the best bowling figures in their round.

Port Mourant Universal DVD then bowled out Blairmont for 107 in their response with off-spinner Devendra Thakurdeen taking 4-14 from nine overs and Guyana leg-spinner Amir Khan 3-10 from nine overs.

Off-spinner Quacy Mickle’s 5-37 from nine overs was largely responsible for Police’s three-wicket win over Edinburgh.

Below are the summarised scores from the matches played:

At D’Edward: West Berbice beat D’Edward by 207 runs. West Berbice 267 all out in 45.2 overs (Quacy Mc Pherson 105, Andrew Dutchin 58, Kenje Sedoc 24, Christian France 3-47, Navin Rampersaud 3-38, Devendra Lalsa 2-43) D’Edward 60 in 13.1 overs (Romain Budhram 27, Krishnadat Ramoo 3-11, Raun Johnson 3-25, Keith Fraser 3-16).

At Cumberland: Universal Solutions Bermine beat Young Warriors by four wickets. Young Warriors 164 in 46.2 overs (Seon Hetmyer 33, Ishwar Singh 31, Wahied Edwards 23, Romario Shepherd 4-36, Steve Latcha 3-30) Universal Solutions Bermine 167-6 in 41.2 overs (Romario Shepherd 56*, Shemroy Barrington 36, Linden Austin 2-13, Vishal Mohabir 2-53).

At Skeldon: Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets beat Skeldon Community Centre by nine wickets. Skeldon Community Centre 154 in 31.2 overs (Charles France 32, Sherwin Murray 22, Parmanand Narine 21, Shawn Pereira 4-48, Royston Crandon 2-37) Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets 155-1 in 23 overs (Delbert Hicks 85*, Jason Sinclair 50*).

At Blairmont: Port Mourant beat Blairmont Community Centre by 54 runs. Port Mourant 161 all out in 41.1 overs (Loyydel Lewis 62, Devendra Thakurdeen 33, Waqar Hassan 5-21, Kevon Jawahir 2-46) Blairmont Community Centre 107 in 31.3 overs (Deveshwari Prashad 42, Avishkar Sewkarran 22, Devendra Thakurdeen 4-14, Amir Khan 3-10, Dimitri Cameron 2-30).

At Edinburgh: Police beat Edinburgh by three wickets. Edinburgh 123 in 28.2 overs (Joseph Giddings 33, Jerome Andrews 31, Quacy Mickle 5-37, Rocky Hutson 3-28, Carl Campbell 2-10) Police 126-7 in 20 overs (Kurt Griffith 28*, Elon Schultz 23, Michael Campbell 22, Jerome Andrews 2-20, Shafeek Khan 2-22, Michael Sampson 2-30).

Meanwhile, the last set of first round match between Guytrack Upper Corentyne and Bush Lot Rising Star is scheduled for Saturday at the Number 69 round.

The second round of the competition is fixed for Sunday.

First Published In The Guyana Times.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Wales A and Independence Sports Club recorded victories when the West Demerara 40-over cricket competition commenced on Sunday last.

At Wales Community Development Centre ground, Wales A defeated Wales B by a mammoth 272 runs. Batting first Wales A piled up an imposing 407-7 off their allocation of overs.

Ramesh Thakur stroked 114; Chandrika Persaud slammed 100 and Ramdial Yankhana chipped in with 66. Azad Ali snared 4-53. Wales B were sent packing for 135 in 27.2 overs. Neil McLean made 26 and Floyd Bovell 22. Vishuu Sue grabbed 4-28 and Persaud 3-19.

At Joe Vieira Park, Independence SC posted 202 all out in 34.3 overs. Eon Samuels led with 56 while Devon Mohabir scored 30. Naresh Persaud claimed 2-24. Canal No. 2 SC were skittled for 88 in 30.3 overs. Paul Parsram scored 28; Roy Benjamin bagged 5-24 and Mahase Dhanpaul 4-16.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) defeated Transport Sports Club (TSC) by an innings and 62 runs, while Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and Everest grabbed first innings points when the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Hadi’s World City Mall Inc first division 2-day tournament continued last weekend.

At DCC, the visitors batted first and were bowled out for 103 in 28 overs with Steven Alves scoring 32. Dexter George captured 5-24, Carlton Jacques 3-16 and Antonell Atwell 2-21. The host replied with 344 all out in 74.2 overs. Ronaldo Renee slammed 97 with eight fours and one six, Atwell scored 55 (3×4,3×6), Kemol Savory 50 (6×4), George 39, Jahon Byron 25, Tevin Imlack and Cleon Mc Ewan 20 each. Kevin Ross was the pick of the bowlers with 7-113 and Jonathan Alphonso 2-18.

Trailing by 241, TSC were scored 179 before they were bowled out in 41 overs in their second innings. Ryan Hemraj top scored with 59 (7×4,2×6), Devon Nandan made 39, Charwayne McPherson 28 and Sunil Singh 23. Atwell snared 4-36 and Keano Harry took 3-41.

At Malteenoes SC, GDF scored 155 all out in 45 overs, batting first. Steven Harris led with 33, Dale De Mendonca 24 and Isaiah Brijaddar 20. Darian Best bagged 5-21 and Steven Sankar 4-21. MSC declared on 100-9 off 31 overs in reply. Steven Jacobs made 21 and Kareem Naughton 18; Gilford Moore and Jeremiah Harris captured three wickets apiece while Andrea Mc Farlene had two.

GDF were sent packing for 99 in 28.2 overs, batting a second time. Steven Harris cracked 48 (3×4,4×6) and Marcus Watkins 24. Sankar claimed 5-22 to end the game with figures of 9-43; Cordel Mars had 3-3 and Best 2-18. Chasing 154, the home team closed the final day on 60-4 after 15 overs to ensure the game ended as a drawn encounter. Jeremiah Harris took two wickets.

At Bourda, GNIC posted 274 all out in 83.2 overs, batting first. Shawn De Souza scored 68 (9×4), Rawl Merell made 33, Quincy Ovid-Richardson 31, David Dick and Ronale Bourne 25 each and Dexter Solomon 23. Left arm spinner Devon Lord picked up three wickets while Joshua Wade and Daniel Seegobin had two each.

Vishal Singh stroked 92 as GCC in reply reached 303-8 after 77 overs when stumps were drawn on the final day. Jeetendra Sookdeo supported with 69, Martin Pestano- Belle 43 and Gewan Singh 25. Ryan Shun and Merell captured two wickets while Royston Simon, Anthony Ifill and Richardson had one each.

At Everest, the home team scored 268-8 declared off 84 overs, taking first strike against GYO.  Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Mandrekar Bhola added 70 for the first wicket to lay the foundation before the latter went for 31. Chanderpaul was dismissed for 54, while Raphael Singh top scored with 67 and Joseph Perry made 65; Leon Scott grabbed 4-71 and Anthony Ifill 2-49. GYO who surprisingly omitted batsman Wazeer Mohamed from their line-up responded with 207 all out in 74.2 overs. Chris Deonarine cracked 76, Ifill 51 and Kwame Crosse 47. Troy Gonsalves bagged 4-16, Riyad Sattaur 2-29 and Javed Rasheed 2-47.

At stumps on the final day Everest were 112-3 in their second turn at the crease. Chaderpaul scored an unbeaten 62 while Perry made 21. Devesh Ramjattan had 2-25.

First Published By Kaieteur News.

Kaieteur News article.

Georgetown, Guyana - Transport Sports Club (TSC) and GNIC played to a tame draw when the latest action of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day tournament concluded yesterday with one game.

Led by a fighting unbeaten 90 from Shawn Massiah, TSC posted 222 before they were bowled out in 50 overs, batting first at Gandhi Youth Organisation.

Massiah slammed eight fours and thee sixes and got valuable support from Waqar Bacchus 29, Kurt Booker 26 and Allwayne Primo 22. Pacer Christian Husbands grabbed 5-58.

GNIC were bowled out for 194 in 48 overs in reply. Kurt Lovell stroked 57, Orlando Fraser 26 and Mohamed Khan 22. Joel Spooner bagged 5-31, Primo 2-52 and Azeem Azeez 2-64.

Leading by 28, TSC scored 173 all out in 39 overs, batting a second time. Mark Ramsammy cracked 62 (8×4,1×6), Azeez 31, Mark Baptiste 25 not out and Chemroy Kendall 21. Fraser and Orlando Kirton captured four wickets each.

Set 202 for victory, GNIC were 49-2 in nine overs when stumps were drawn on the second and final day. Lovell made 26, while Joshua Persaud was on 17 not out.

First Published By Kaieteur News.