Berbice women rocketed to a massive 481-run win over Essequibo women as the senior female 50-over inter-county tournament got underway yesterday at the National Stadium, Providence.
Berbice won the toss and opted to take first strike where they piled on 519 for three in their 50 overs against the inexperienced bowling attack. Essequibo were then rolled over for 38 in 17.3 overs.
Katana Mentore produced the goods once again for the Ancient County with a blistering 159 from 129 balls. The opener struck 21 boundaries during her innings and shared a 252-run partnership with her captain, Shabika Gajnabi, who made 129 runs from 91 balls, hitting 18 boundaries along the way.
Gajnabi was eventually bowled by Analisa D’Aguiar (2-114) in the 29th over, but Sheneta Grimmond continued where her captain left off by hammering 11 boundaries during her 66-ball, 101, not out.
The pair forged a 148-run union for the third wicket before Mentore was dismissed by Kumarie Persaud (1-81).
Sherica Campbelle strolled to the crease and laced five boundaries during a brisk 43 not out while sharing an unbroken partnership of 98 with Grimmond. Berbice were also assisted with 86 extras, inclusive of 52 wides.
Gajnabi returned to cap off a splendid all-round day by picking up three wickets for two runs, earning the player of the match award.
She was aided by Campbelle (2-9), Erva Giddings (2-15), Grimmond (1-1) and Ashmini Munisar (1-2). Berbice gifted Essequibo 10 extras as no batter reached double figures.
Demerara will face Select XI at the same venue today.
