Gros Islet Retains SLNCA Two-Day Championship Title

[Result: Gros Islet defeated Central Castries by 7 wickets, securing their second consecutive SLNCA Two-Day Championship title].

Gros Islet showcased their dominance in the SLNCA Two-Day Championship with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Central Castries last weekend (December 27–28) at the Mindoo Phillip Park.

Winning the toss, Gros Islet captain Kimani Melius made the strategic choice to field first, a decision that paid off immediately.
Despite a valiant effort from Jaden Elibox, who top-scored with 71 runs—including five fours and seven sixes—Central Castries crumbled for 136 in just 23.2 overs. Tyler Sookwa (17) and Amari Venner (12) were the only other players to breach double figures.

Gros Islet’s bowling attack was led by Bjorn Fanis, who delivered an outstanding performance with figures of 5 for 22 in 5.2 overs. He received solid support from Isaiah Jones (2 for 8 in 3 overs), Darvin Forde (2 for 37 in 6 overs), and Jeandell Cyril, who took one wicket.

In response, Gros Islet posted a formidable 289 all out in 42.5 overs, anchored by an explosive century from Noel Leo. Leo blasted 130 runs off just 63 balls, achieving an astonishing strike rate of 206, with nine fours and eleven sixes.

Additionally, the tournament’s leading run-scorer Jard Goodman contributed a well-crafted 67 (five fours, five sixes), while Kimani Melius and Tarrique Edward scored 21 and 17, respectively.

For Central Castries, Jaden Elibox managed to take 2 for 21 in 7 overs, with Dillan John, Tyler Sookwa, Cyprani Norville, Amari Venner, Aiden Scholar, and Jamaal James each claiming one wicket.

Facing a first-innings deficit of 153, Central Castries displayed resilience in their second innings, managing to score 304 all out in 59.1 overs. Jamaal James led the charge with an impressive knock of 90 (seven fours, seven sixes), while Amari Venner added 53 (six fours, two sixes).

Tyler Sookwa (40), Kymani Sexius (33), Theo Edward (20), Jaden Elibox (19), and Stephen Naitram (16) provided valuable support.

Gros Islet’s standout performer was off-spinner Lee John, who delivered a career-best performance with figures of 8 for 85 in 19.1 overs. Seam bowlers Darvin Forde and Bjorn Fanis each chipped in with one wicket.

Chasing a target of 152, Gros Islet made swift work of the run chase, reaching 152 for 3 in just 14.5 overs. Captain Kimani Melius led from the front with a remarkable 98, hitting four fours and eleven sixes, while Noel Leo—following up his first-innings century—remained unbeaten on 46.

For Central Castries, Dillan John and Jaden Elibox managed to take one wicket each.