Guyana Men’s U19 fall short in 5-run thriller against Jamaica

Guyana Under-19s Men suffered a heart-breaking five-run defeat to Jamaica in Match 9 of the West Indies Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 Championship at the Conaree Sports Club on Wednesday.
Chasing 261 for victory, Guyana were bowled out for 255 in 49.3 overs despite a promising start. Opener Romeo Deonarine anchored the top order as Guyana reached 55.
Other batters to produce runs was Rampertab Ramnauth 39, Sachin Balgobin and Captain Jonathan Van-Lang 32.
However, Jamaica fought back strongly, led by Kev’Aundre Virgo, who produced a match-winning spell of 4 for 37. Brian Barnes added crucial support with 2 for 35 as Guyana’s middle and lower order fell under pressure in the final overs.
Earlier, Jamaica posted 260 all out in 46.5 overs after being sent in to bat. Despite slipping to 63 for 4, their middle and lower-order partnerships rebuilt the innings. Key contributions from Barnes 68, Vital Lawes 42 and Pajay Nelson 40 propelling Jamaica past the 250-mark.
Parmeshwar Ram and Golcharran Chulai took two wickets each for Guyana, with good support from Jonathan van Lange, Micah Amsterdam, and Riyad Latiff, who each bagged one.
The loss leaves Guyana searching for some momentum as the tournament heats up. Jamaica, though, celebrated a hard-earned win in a closely contested encounter.
Guyana will next turn their attention to Windward Islands on Saturday, July 12, at St Mary’s Park, Cayon. The match will bowl off at 10 hours. (GCB)