In just four First-class matches during the 2016/2017 Cricket West Indies (CWI) 4-day season, fast bowling all-rounder Romario Shepherd showcased promising signs with both bat and ball for three-time defending champions Guyana Jaguars.
After making his debut at Sabina Park against the Jamaica Scorpions he finished the season with 11 wickets and also managed to score a half-century during his five innings.
Romario Shepherd ‘round-arm’ action has proven to be an effective trait since he generates some impressive speeds to test batsmen even on slow surfaces
The player is expected to be one of the main strike weapons with the new ball for his team when they play the Scorpions today at Providence.
“You have to plan well going into such a big tournament. Last year I did well and this year I hope to do even better”, the hard-working cricketer told Guyana Times Sport.
“This season we are looking to win again and that is everyone’s goal. From my side, every time I get the opportunity to represent Guyana I want to do it well,” he added.
In the recently concluded Jaguars’ Franchise 3-day league, he scored close to 230 runs inclusive of three half centuries and also had 15 wickets in four matches while playing for West Demerara.
On reflection, the 22 year-old felt it was a good outing since he is seeing some technical improvements to his trade.
“To the left handers I was a bit weak but with help from the coaches at the Academy who are working very hard with me, I have seen some improvements in the three-day league.”
The former national under-19 speedster who is seeking to model his career after menacing South African fast bowling Dale Steyn was adamant that the learning curve of bowling on pitches outside of the Guyana has been tremendous and he hopes it can continue this season.
Quizzed on the improvement in his batting, he stated, “I have been placing a lot of emphasis on my batting because these days being a bowler alone might not get you into teams so giving yourself a chance with the bat helps the selectors and gives you an extra opportunity.”
The Berbician who spent his elementary years at the Tucber Park Cricket Club, has been hailed as one of more disciplined students of the sport in the country, and it will certainly be applicable since he is focused on improving his fitness given the rigours of his job. (Akeem Greene)
