Windward Islands defeated Leeward Islands yesterday by an innings and 60 runs inside three days of the West Indies Cricket Championship match played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
The Leewards were bowled out for 225 in the second innings.
Shadrack Decarte showcased his exceptional talent with a commanding maiden first-class century, propelling the Windward Islands to a formidable first-innings total of 408 all out (116.3 overs) against the Leeward Islands in the West Indies Championship, Match #13, held from March 5 to 8 at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG).
On the opening day, the Saint Lucian all-rounder scored an impressive 119 off 188 deliveries (17 fours), executing a pivotal rescue act as he lifted his team from a precarious 58 for 4. Decarte formed a crucial fifth-wicket partnership of 74 runs with Sunil Ambris, who contributed 35 off 40 balls, to build significant momentum.
The lower-order batters displayed remarkable resilience, with Ryan John also making his debut first-class century, scoring 109 off 178 balls (11 fours, 3 sixes). He shared a 102-run seventh-wicket partnership with Kenneth Dember, who remained unbeaten on 75 off 128 balls (8 fours). Wicket-keeper Gian Benjamin added vital support with 30 off 37 balls (7 fours), bolstering the Windwards’ total effectively.
Oshane Thomas stood out as the top bowler for the Leewards, taking 4 wickets for 66 runs in 21 overs, while Justin Greaves claimed 3 wickets for 102 runs in 26 overs.
In response, the Leeward Islands were decisively bowled out for 195 runs in 51.1 overs. West Indies opener Mikyle Louis was the standout performer, scoring 84 off 152 balls (13 fours), supported by Jahmar Hamiltonâs 40 off 66 balls (7 fours).
The Windwards’ bowling attack was led by right-arm seamer Gilon Tyson, who delivered an impressive 5 wickets for 45 runs in 13 overs. John continued his remarkable form in the match with figures of 4 wickets for 42 runs, while Descarte made his contribution with 1 wicket for 43 runs in 11.1 overs, ensuring a complete rout of their sub-regional rivals.
Faced with a follow-on, the Leewards entered their second innings, and by lunch on the third day (yesterday), managed to post a score of 31 for 3, with Descarte claiming 2 wickets for 21 runs in 7 overs, further asserting the Windwards’ dominance.