Guyana made hay in the little sun shine yesterday to demolish debutants Leeward Islands by nine wickets in an abbreviated game at the Everest Cricket Club Ground. The rookies were dismissed for a paltry 43 all out in 15 of their allotted 20 overs while the host cruised to 44 for the lost of one wicket.
Leewards players celebrates the dismissal of Melanie HenryPlaffiana Millington receives her player of the match trophy from former West Indies fast bowler and match referee Reon King
The game started at 14:53 hrs and was reduced to 20 overs a-side after several checks by the match officials. The late start was due to a wet outfield from overnight and early morning rain.
However, when the ground was deemed fit to play, the host won the toss and inserted Leewards who are playing in the competition for the first time. The debutants got a nasty baptism and were cheaply blown away for the inadequate total compliments of brilliant off spin bowling by U-19 player Plaffiana Millington.
Millington grabbed 3-5 from four overs and was well supported by pacer Akaze Thompson, who picked up two wickets. Guyana Captain, Tremayne Smartt took one wicket while the other three batters were dismissed via the run out route. Only Amanda Edwards of the Leewards’ batters made it to double figures, hitting 13 not out with a four and a six.
In reply, Guyana reached the target in eight overs, with World Champion Shamaine Campbell top scoring with 17 not out from 13 balls and Latoya Smith unbeaten on 15 off 25 deliveries. Melanie Henry was the only wicket to fall for Guyana Leg Before Wicket (LBW) to pacer Melissa Clarke.
Guyana found itself in a fortunate territory yesterday being able to play their first match against the debutants. It was only the third match played in a tournament which is badly being affected by rain. The win puts Guyana in a situation where victory in their final round match will enable them a place in the finals.
The other two matches were abandoned without a ball being bowled. At Enterprise Community Development Centre Ground, the game between current champions Barbados and the Windward Islands was called off at 09:30 hrs while at Enmore Community Development Centre Ground the match between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago was abandoned after an inspection at 13:30 hrs.
Guyana, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago are the only teams with wins to their name to date in the three matches that were played. Unfortunately Windwards have not played a game while Jamaica, Barbados and Leewards have all lost matches.
The last round is scheduled for Friday while the Final is set for Sunday at Everest. In the final round of matches Guyana will take on Jamaica at Everest. Barbados tackle Leewards at Enterprise and Trinidad and Tobago come up against Windwards at Enmore.
