AFTER being named the best national team at the 37th National Sports Awards, the National Under-15 Cricket Team continued their preparation for the upcoming Windward Islands tournament with two practice matches at the Gros Islet Playing Field over the weekend.
On Saturday, the teams were captained by Keygan Arnold (Team B) and Jaden Elibox (Team A). Batting first, Team A made 196 for 9 in their 45 allotted overs with UdellPreville scoring 80 (11 fours, 2 sixes), Sherqwayne Prudent 30 and Davel Edward 21. Bowling for Team B, Mc Kale Nelson bagged 3 for 13 in 4 overs, Ryan Goodman 2 for 33 in 6 overs.
In reply, Team B made 226 for 6 in their 45 overs with JehanBoodha making 61, AckeemAuguste 45 and Ephron Charles 25. Bowling for Team B, Anselm Gittens took 2 for 26 in 5 overs, Tyron Theodore 2 for 29 in 7 overs.
On Sunday, the teams were engaged in a 40-over a side match with Team A led by Arnold and Team B by Elibox. Team A batted first, making 177 for 7 in their allotted overs with AckeemAuguste 49, Keleb Thomas 20 not out, Ryan Goodman 16 and Zidane Arthur 11. The wicket takers for Team B were Tyron Theodore with 2 for 20, and Sky Lafeuille 2 for 24.
Chasing 178 for victory, Team B was dismissed for 136 with Mc Kenny Clarke making 45, Elibox 27, Daniel Edwin 14 and Davel Edward 12. Bowling for Team A, Stephane Theophane took 4 for 32, Keygan Arnold 3 for 29, Mc Kale Nelson 2 for 14.
After the trial matches, the Department of Youth Development Sports is expected to name 17 players to continue preparation for the Windward Islands tournament of which Saint Lucia are the defending champions.