NORTH SOUND, Antigua, CMC – Leeward Islands gained a timely boost of confidence ahead of the Caribbean Twenty20 Championship on Thursday, with a 37-run victory over Windward Islands in a practice match.
The victory was set-up by Chesney Hughes and Montcin Hodge, after they added 124 for second wicket in 12 overs, as Leewards, batting first, reached 172 for four from their allocation of 20 overs in the match at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.
Hughes struck six fours and four sixes in the top score of 86 from 54 balls, and Hodge supported with five fours and one six in 58 from 45 balls.
Jaques Taylor was the most successful Leewards bowler with three for 23, while Kelbert Walters and Lionel Baker collected two wickets apiece, as Windwards were dismissed for 135 in 18.1 overs.
Windwards’ again gave proof that their batting will be a bugbear, despite Andre Fletcher’s 41 from 27 balls, and Devon Smith’s 38 from 33 balls.
Scores: LEEWARD ISLANDS 172 for four off 20 overs (Chesney Hughes 86, Montcin Hodge 58)
WINDWARD ISLANDS 135 off 18.1 overs (Andre Fletcher 41, Devon Smith 30; Jacques Taylor 3-23)