West Indies Championship: A Thrilling Showdown at Coolidge

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – The West Indies Championship match between the West Indies Academy and Jamaica Scorpions at Coolidge is heating up as we head into the final day. The Academy side put on a spirited performance yesterday, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Starting day three at 110-2, the Jamaica Scorpions were in a strong position with a lead of 274 runs. However, the tables turned dramatically as they were bowled out for just 191 runs in 53.4 overs. This collapse set the Academy a challenging target of 356 runs for victory.

Brandon King, who resumed his innings on 58, added 19 more runs to finish as the Scorpions’ top scorer with a commendable 77 off 115 balls, peppered with 11 fours and two sixes. His partner, Javelle Glenn, chipped in with a steady 39 runs. But it was the Academy bowlers who stole the show. Joshua Bishop led the charge with an impressive 5-35 from 15 overs, while Johann Layne supported him well with 4-50 from 16 overs.

In response, the Academy ended the day at 256-5 after 59 overs, needing just 100 more runs to clinch victory. Carlon Bowen-Tuckett remained not out on 46, while Joshua Bishop, who had already made his mark with the ball, was batting on 25.

The Academy’s chase didn’t start smoothly, with opener Mbeki Joseph falling early for just 14 runs. However, captain Ackeem Auguste and Teddy Bishop steadied the ship with a crucial 124-run partnership for the second wicket. Bishop played a well-crafted innings of 57 off 87 balls, while Auguste anchored the innings with a fluent 77 off 108 balls before being dismissed by Brad Barnes.

As the sun set on day three, Rivaldo Clarke and Jordan Johnson also fell cheaply, leaving the Academy in a tense position. Barnes and Ojay Shields were the standout bowlers for the Scorpions, sharing four wickets between them.

Guyana Harpy Eagles Soar High

Meanwhile, the Guyana Harpy Eagles continued their impressive run, securing their fourth win with a commanding 10-wicket victory over the Windward Island Volcanoes at the Guyana National Stadium. The Eagles showcased their dominance in all departments, with standout performances from their top-order batters and crafty bowling from their spinners.

Resuming their first innings at 159 for three, the Harpy Eagles chased down the Volcanoes’ total of 213, thanks to a brilliant century from Tevin Imlach. He scored 324 all out, marking his second century of the tournament and fifth overall in first-class cricket. Imlach faced 201 balls and struck eight boundaries before being caught off medium pacer Gilon Tyson.

The Volcanoes struggled in their second innings, skittled out for just 135 runs, with left-arm spinners Gudakesh Motie and Veerasammy Permaul wreaking havoc. Motie claimed a sensational 6-38, while Permaul added three more wickets to his tally. Chasing a mere 28 runs, the Harpy Eagles made light work of the target, sealing a comfortable victory.

Leeward Islands Hurricanes Dominate

At the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, the Leeward Islands Hurricanes delivered a masterclass against the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC). Resuming their second innings with a 349-run lead, the Hurricanes declared at 249 for seven, setting CCC a daunting target of 505 runs.

Jewel Andrew continued his fine form, following up his first-innings century with a solid 65. Despite a valiant effort from Kyle Corbin, who scored 58 not out, CCC collapsed to 131-9 in their second innings. The speedy Oshane Thomas shone with a career-best 5-36, ensuring there was no escape for the College men.

As the final day approaches, cricket fans are left wondering: Can the Academy pull off a remarkable chase, or will the Scorpions hold their nerve? The excitement is palpable, and all eyes will be on Coolidge as the drama unfolds.