TT, Leewards in innings showdown

THERE were encouraging signs that a full day’s play is possible today in the Carib Beer Cricket Series third round match between Trinidad and Tobago and Leeward Islands at the Queen’s Park Oval. So the stage is set for a first innings battle once both captains agree to a sporting declaration. Although there was blazing sunshine and no threat of rain from any of the small patches of whitish clouds hovering on the eastern or northern horizons, not a ball was bowled on the third day yesterday, much to the disappointment of the players and officials alike.
 
The bowlers run-up on the southern end and the perimeter areas around the boundary line were left very soft by Saturday’s showers and posed a danger to the players. Umpires Clyde Duncan (Guyana) and Khemraj Barrasin-gha (TT) along with captains Daren Ganga (TT) and Sylvester Joseph (Leewards) made a final inspection after three o’clock and decided they would not risk playing for one hour. The ground staff took over the preparation with the cutter and roller in full swing to allow the sunlight to dry up  affected areas. Barring anymore showers and the prospects of a full day’s play possible, skipper Ganga is looking forward to positive cricket and a battle for first innings points.

He pointed out that he will be seeking to get Joseph to agree to a sporting declaration in the hope that either team can strive for six points. Ganga stated: “We are looking to play positive cricket, and if it boils down to a situation where both myself and Sylvester (Joseph) are interested in having a first innings decision affair, we will play positively and make a sporting declaration. But this will depend on their plan.” Leewards coach Rolston Otto was disappointed that his players did not get the opportunity of playing for a longer period in the match. But revealed that they are looking at two options for today’s play.