In a thrilling encounter at the Everest Cricket Club, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) yesterday emerged victorious over Guyana National Industrial Cooperation (GNIC) by six wickets in the Georgetown Cricket Association DDL Pepsi First Division 50-over tournament.
The match, shortened to 49 overs, saw GNIC winning the toss and batting. They posted a total of 183 all out in 44.4 overs, setting the stage for a competitive contest. However, the total was no match for GDF who reached 184 for four in 28.5 overs. Birthday-boy, Ovid Richardson stole the show for GNIC, showcasing his batting prowess with an impressive knock of 55 runs. His innings included six boundaries and one maximum. Contributions from Jason George, who made 43 from just 36 balls with two sixes and three fours, and Stephon Campbell, the only other GNIC batsman to reach double figures with 16 runs, added some stability to the innings. However, extras played a significant role, accounting for 21 runs. The GDF bowlers, led by Joshua Jones with figures of 3-33, were relentless. Keith Simpson and Delshawn McDonald also made notable contributions, both securing two wickets each.
In pursuit of the target, GDF’s Quacy McPherson led from the front, top-scoring with a blistering 65 runs off 64 balls. His innings featured three sixes and five boundaries, providing the much-needed impetus to the chase. McPherson combined effectively with Raqueal Reddy, who contributed 19 runs, in a crucial 59-run partnership for the second wicket.
The heroics continued as Damion Waldron played a stellar unbeaten innings of 38 runs, smashing three sixes and three fours. Waldron, alongside Keith Simpson (21 not out), guided Guyana Defense Force to victory with an unbroken 54-run stand.
