– Harris shines with all-round performance
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) successfully defended their Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup title after holding their nerve to secure a thrilling two-run victory over the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in a nail-biting final played on Thursday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary.
Batting first, the defending champions posted 142-6 from their allotted 20 overs, with all-rounder Stephen Harris producing a superb unbeaten knock of 71 from 58 deliveries, which included 6 fours and 2 sixes.
GPF found themselves in early trouble after Captain, Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ Ravindradat Budhram (0) and Ronald Alli (0) departed leaving the Officers reeling at 9 for 2.
His Excellency President Irfaan Ali presenting the winning trophy to GPF Officers Captain Assistant Commissioner ‘Administration’ Ravindradat Budhram alongside his team
Senior player Troy Benn contributed 21 from 24 balls before Harris anchored the innings and guided his side to a competitive total.
For GDF, Reon Lall was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2-13 runs from his four overs while Randy Wade and Andre McFarlane picked up a wicket each.
Set at 143 for victory, GDF pushed the defending champions all the way but ultimately fell agonisingly short, finishing on 140-6 from their allotted 20 overs.
Seanden David-Longe led GDF’s charge with 39 from 27 deliveries, (3×4 3×6), while Rockael Reddy contributed 34 from 41 balls and Hakeem David made a brisk 19 from 12 deliveries.
With the match going down to the wire, the Police bowlers held their composure under pressure to successfully defend the total.
Harris completed an outstanding all-round performance by taking two wickets for just 16 runs from his four overs.
Trevor Benn, Troy Benn and Collin Sullivan each claimed one wicket, while GPF wicketkeeper Raheem Haynes was involved in three dismissals, taking two catches and completing a run-out.
When the final delivery was bowled, GDF had reached 140 for six, just two runs short of GPF’s 142 for six, sparking celebrations among the Police team at Eve Leary as they successfully retained the Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup.
It was a fitting end to a nail-biting final, with the defending champions pushed to the very last ball before holding their nerve to retain the title. (GPF FB)
Source: Kaieteur News
