By: Tito Chapman
A 142 run partnership between Devon Thomas and Terrance Warde ensured victory for the Leewards at home. With a six-wicket victory over the Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, the Hurricanes are on the verge of finishing the season on a very high note.
The inform Devon Thomas was the driving force behind both innings. A fiery knock of 117 from Thomas was the spark that put the Hurricanes over the line. Ably assisted by a patient knock from Terrance Warde, both batsmen came together when the score was 26-4, they persevered to the end, as they reached the target of 167 in 39 overs.
With the Championship title insight, Hurricanes – winning was a priority.
Batting first the Volcanoes were bowled out for 200. The in-form Sunil Ambris topped scored with 92 while Kimani Melius and Dennis Smith contributed 29 and 27 respectively.
Alzarri Joseph bagged 3-36, and Sheeno Berridge, 4-34. Quinton Botswain also contributed with 2-58 while Rahkeem Cornwall picked up a wicket.
Half century innings from Thomas and Peters and a valid contribution from Warde (60, 69 and 40) led the Leewards to a score of 261. The main wicket takers were Ray Jordan, 3-40, Josh Thomas, 2-46, Alick Athanaze, 2-21, and Kavem Hodge, 2-36.
Batting a second time, the Volcanoes posted 226. Audy Alexander topped scored with an even half-century. Key players, Devon Smith, 27, Ambris, 31, Athanaze, 32, and Jordan, 29 got starts but never capitalized.
Off to shaky start with the loss of Carty and Hodge, the Hurricanes run chase of 167 didn’t seem possible.
However, Thomas’ arrival to the crease, changed the outlook of the game. He hammered the bowling as he smashed 15 fours and four sixes on his way to an unbeaten century. Warde supported with 37 from 101 deliveries.
