Shepherd credits preparation for scoring maiden first-class century

By Brandon Corlette

During his time in New Zealand, Romario Shepherd enjoyed a purple patch with the bat, scoring his maiden first-class century in challenging conditions against a New Zealand A side.

Shepherd hit 232 runs at an impressive average of 77.3, including a career best 133* and an unbeaten 77. The Berbician has credited his maiden first-class ton to the preparation he had undergone prior to the first-class match in New Zealand.
“I did a lot of batting in practice. I had a lot of net sessions before that game, so I was timing the ball well; so, I was confident,” Shepherd said as he spoke exclusively with this daily publication.
This well-built all-rounder, who plays his cricket for Tucber Park in New Amsterdam, has said he cherishes that New Zealand experience, especially since he was not one of those initially selected.
“When I get that call, I was really excited to showcase my talent, especially in the first game of the tour. I decided to pull my weight,” he explained.
Shepherd played rescue roles in that A series, batting at number 9 with the Caribbean team reeling at 113-7. “We were under pressure, so I bogged down well with Raymon (Reifer),” Shepherd said.

West Indies’ next assignment will be the tour of Bangladesh, with One Day Internationals (ODIs) and two Test matches. If given the opportunity on that tour, Shepherd said, he would continue to put in the good work, and the results would follow.

Reflecting on his year in cricket, Shepherd noted that 2020 was a year in which he continued to apply himself after making his debut. “This year was a follow-up for me, and I am looking to improve as I go along,” Shepherd disclosed.
The 26-year-old Shepherd has a first-class record that is better than that of most of his Caribbean counterparts. In 25 first-class matches, this right-arm speedster has taken 74 wickets at an average of 24.62, with a best bowling figure of 5-24.
Moreover, his value increased exponentially when he showed his ability with the bat against that New Zealand ‘A’ side.