A sensational century from Kamesh Lall followed by a five-wicket haul from Shaziff Mohammed ensured Imam Bacchus Bulls a 145-run win over Reliance Hustlers and a spot in the final of the Central Essequibo Cricket Committee Under-19 40-over tournament.
The match was originally listed for last weekend but due to the inclement weather was rescheduled.
With the rain holding up just enough to allow a 35-over semi-final to be played at the Reliance Ground, the hosts won the toss and inserted Bulls. That decision proved to be a wrong call as Bulls piled up 261 for six from their allotted overs while Reliance managed just 116 in 19.3 overs.
Bulls’ innings was piloted by Lall who struck nine sixes and 10 fours on his way to 125 before being caught off Joshua Taylor who picked up 2-51 from his seven overs.
Lall was supported by Govinda Toolsie who made 68, decorated by three sixes and five fours before being stumped off of Abdul Nadir. Sheldon Charles was the only other batsman to reach double figures with 25. In the chase, Reliance struggled to build big partnerships but had their moments with Toolsie returned to stroke 47, laced with one six and eight fours. Alvin Conway also got to double figures as he carved three sixes and two fours on his way to 35. Mohammed played a pivotal role with the ball, bagging five wickets for 15 runs from just 5.1 overs. Ricardo David picked up two wickets while Charles and Toolsie returned one wicket a piece.
Bacchus Bulls will now head to their home ground in Affiance where they will play the undefeated Queenstown on Saturday with the winner walking away with the title.
