In a spectacular twist of fortunes, the Guyana Harpy Eagles secured a resounding 56-run triumph over the Barbados Pride in a CG United Regional Super50 clash yesterday.
Led by an impressive bowling effort from Gudakesh Motie and Kevin Sinclair, Pride were contained to 147 all out from 39.5 overs batting second.
After winning the toss and chasing at Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in response to Eagles’ 202 all out in 46.3 overs.
The match, initially scheduled for a 50-over contest, encountered a twist as it was reduced to 47 overs due to unforeseen group equipment issues.
Harpy Eagles faced early setbacks, sliding to 34 for two after 10 overs with Chandrapaul Hemraj and Tevin Imlach dismissed for seven runs each. However, Rutherford showed his maturity with a blistering 74 from 70 balls.
The left-hander’s innings included four fours and four sixes, one of which sailed over mid-wicket off the bowling of Roston Chase. His partnership with Kemol Savory (35 runs) for the sixth wicket proved instrumental, rescuing the Eagles from a precarious position.
Despite a few hiccups, including the departure of key players Shimron Hetmyer (19) and Kevlon Anderson (16), Rutherford found support in Gudakesh Motie.
The duo toiled for a crucial 63-run stand for the seventh wicket before Rutherford’s dismissal at mid-wicket.
The Pride bowlers, despite contributing 24 extras, faced fierce resistance from Javed Leacock (3-30) and Raymon Reifer (3-38).
Chasing a target of 203, Barbados Pride commenced their innings with determination. Kyle Mayers and Kraigg Brathwaite formed a solid opening partnership, accumulating 81 runs before Brathwaite succumbed to Motie for 17.
Mayers continued his aggressive onslaught, reaching an impressive 64 from 63 balls, featuring nine fours and a six.
However, the tide turned when Motie orchestrated a double-wicket maiden after the drinks break, dismissing Shamarh Brooks (six runs) and Shai Hope for a golden duck. This devastating blow reduced the Pride to 96 for four, putting them on the back foot.
Despite a resilient effort from Roston Chase (25) and a modest contribution from Jomel Warrican (11), the Pride lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs. Motie, the standout performer, claimed a career-best 5-17, well-supported by Kevin Sinclair (3-30).
