UWI crowned 50 overs champs

Fulham, electing to bat first at the Sir Frank Worrell Ground, St Augustine, were bowled out for a modest 190 in 35 overs despite an impressive opening stand of 80 runs in the first 15 overs by Steffan Campo (49) and Stephen Sooklal (34). The only other performing batsman for Fulham was Rondel Jones who made 29.

UWI, bowling with great discipline, were backed by impeccable fielding and catching as Fulham lost 10 wickets for 110 runs.

UWI Skipper Travis Blyden led from the front, showing safe hands with two outstanding catches to remove Campo and Jones who were threatening to post a big score.

Russel Paul was the most penetrative bowler on the day with five wickets for 26 runs in his allotted 10 overs. He was supported by Shaun Sookdial who grabbed three for 39 in six overs.

UWI showed poise and aggres sion at the start of their run chase and were led by their consistent opener Jasbour Findlay who scored his first century of the season with a brilliant and timely 105 not out off 80 balls. Findlay stroked 10 fours and two sixes to control the run chase while Christanja Carey chipped in with 43 runs as UWI coasted to 191 for four in 29 overs.

The wicket takers for Fulham were Stephen Sooklal with two for 33 in six overs while Steffan Campo (1/33) and Anderson Nesbitt (1/33) had one apiece.

This is the first 50 Overs Championship title for UWI who won six out of their seven 50 overs matches for the 2017 season.

The other teams in the division include Curepe Sports, EYM, Dreadnoughts, Bamboo Sports and UTT. Blyden, speaking to Newsday yesterday, said, “I’m delighted with the victory.

This is the first time I’m playing with UWI and this is the first time UWI won a 50 overs title.

The goal was to win all three titles (league, T20 and 50 overs) but unfortunately we got knocked out early in the T20 and we’re mid-table in the league. All the bowlers were on target in this competition and the batsmen did well. It was a team effort and we executed well.”