A century stand between Anthony Bramble and Vishaul Singh as well as good returns with the ball from Junior Sinclair and Demetri Cameron highlighted the opening day of the Guyana Harpy Eagles’ final practice match yesterday.
At the National Stadium, Providence, in blistering heat, Chanderpaul’s XI won the toss and opted to bat first where they were bundled out for 119 in 39 overs. Johnson’s XI replied with 158 for five after 41.3 overs by the close of play.
With Johnson’s XI badly wounded at 42 for four, it was Bramble who joined to Singh to forge a 116-run stand for the fifth wicket.
Bramble laced 10 fours and a six during his 90-ball 67 not out while Singh, on the other hand, was patient during his 98-ball 50. He carved eight boundaries before a direct hit by Shemar Joseph ended his innings and brought a close to the day’s play.
Nial Smith (2-17), despite being guilty of jumping the crease on four occasions, rocked the top order early on with impressive lengths and late swing. His first victim was Chandrapaul Hemraj (06) who was bowled by an inswinger after being dropped in the slip from the previous delivery. Smith also accounted for Leon Johnson (04) who was dropped off a no-ball then having him trapped leg before wicket and leave his side 29 for two at Tea.
The recalled Ronsford Beaton (2-20) also showcased himself from the other end with pace and bounce which got the results as he scattered the stumps of Akshaya Persaud and then dismissed Tevin Imlach for 15.
Earlier, when Chanderpaul’s XI batted, off-spinner Sinclair worked his way through the order to end with 4-44 while Cameron claimed 3-23. The duo was supported by Keemo Paul with 2-19 and Clinton Pestano with 1-10.
Tagenarine Chanderpaul top scored with 22 from 47 balls before a top edge to Cameron off of Pestano sent him back to the dugout. Kemol Savory (19), Kevlon Anderson (18), Kevin Sinclair (15), Sachin Singh (13) and Smith (12) all had starts but couldn’t carry on.
Today’s second day begins at 09.30 hours as Harpy Eagles continue their preparation for the final three rounds of the West Indies Championships.
