By Tyriq Walters
In an intense encounter during the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) first division two-day tournament, Everest Cricket Club and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) played out a draw over the weekend, showcasing resilience and skill on the cricket field.
Batting first, the Guyana Defence Force posted a total of 163 runs in 38.2 overs. Kwesi Mickle led the charge with a spirited knock of 67 runs, supported by Joshua Jones (23 runs) and opener Leon Andrews (19 runs).
Javed Rasheed starred with the ball for Everest Cricket Club, claiming four crucial wickets for 26 runs in 12.2 overs, with Chris Harry and Ushradeva Balgobin contributing three wickets and two wickets respectively.
In response, Everest Cricket Club’s batting effort fell short as they were bowled out for 150 runs in 43.1 overs, trailing by 13 runs.
Danesh Mangal top-scored with a brisk 62 runs off 37 balls, while Anthony Sanichar and Ushradeva Balgobin made valuable contributions with 24 runs and 22 runs respectively.
GDF’s Joshua Jones, Leon Andrews, and Shamal Angel starred with the ball, each claiming three wickets to restrict Everest’s total.
In their second innings, the soldiers from GDF showcased their batting prowess, posting a formidable total of 242 runs for eight wickets.
Garfield Benjamin led the charge with an unbeaten 76 runs, supported by Kwesi Mickle (43 runs) and Shamal Angel (25 runs).
Javed Rasheed continued his stellar performance with the ball, taking five wickets for 47 runs in 20 overs, with Balgobin and Steven Mangal providing crucial support.
With Everest Cricket Club requiring 255 runs for victory, they faced a daunting task but managed to hold on for a draw at the close of the day’s play, displaying resilience and determination.
The exciting cricket action will continue next weekend as both teams look to build on their performances in the GCA First Division Tournament.