By Eric Collymore
In an intense match during the GFSCA Demerara Cricket Board’s Under-19 Inter-Association tournament, the Upper Demerara Cricket Association (UDCA) clinched a thrilling victory over the East Coast team, thanks to a resilient last-wicket stand.
The match, held at the Lusignan Cricket Ground, witnessed a low-scoring affair as the East Coast Cricket Association was bowled out for a mere 66 runs in 30.4 overs.
Only Captain Nicholas Shiopersaud managed to reach double figures, scoring 17 runs.
UDCA’s bowlers, led by fast bowler Renaldo Grenville (4/11) and spinner Stephon Sankar (3/6), along with Tyriq Walters (2 wickets), orchestrated the collapse of the East Coast batting lineup.
Despite the modest target of 67 runs, UDCA faced a stern challenge as the East Coast team claimed nine wickets. Spinners Neeran Bani and Alex Datadin were particularly effective, taking four and three wickets respectively.
However, UDCA’s last-wicket pair of Tyriq Walters (12) and Andy Ramgolam (4) displayed nerves of steel, guiding their team to a nail-biting one-wicket victory.
Shiloh Adams contributed with 16 runs, top-scoring for UDCA.
Following the match, Grenville expressed his thoughts, highlighting the team’s motivation after a previous loss to the Georgetown Cricket Association.
He emphasized the team’s unity and determination to bounce back.
In another match, West Demerara emerged victorious by 10 runs against the East Bank Cricket Association at the Farm Cricket Ground.
The tournament promises more thrilling encounters as play resumes on Saturday with two matches scheduled.