… Shepherd replaces Hooper

AFTER thumping Jamaica Scorpions in the opening round of the WICB PCL 4-Day 2016-17, defending champions Guyana Jaguars departed yesterday to hunt glory against the Leeward and Windward Islands teams.
Jaguars take on Leeward Islands Hurricanes from November 18 to 21 at Warner Park before moving to the Darren Sammy Cricket ground to face the Windward Islands Volcanoes from November 25 to 28. Thereafter, they will return home to challenge Barbados Pride in a day/night encounter.
The defending champs overcame a frustrating evening session after rain accounted for more than a session’s play on the final day to inflict Scorpions a 181-run defeat. It was the 18th time the Guyanese have gone undefeated since the 2013/2014 season. All the key batsmen and bowlers excelled and looked in top form.
Jaguars opted for a paceman instead of a spinner for the tour. Hence, the very impressive Romario Shepherd replaces Eon Hooper. Hooper had replaced Devendra Bishoo who was called up for West Indies tri-series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.
The off-spinner went wicket-less against the Scorpions but bowled economically and showed good signs for the future.
The full squad reads: Rajendra Chandrika, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Leon Johnson (captain), Vishaul Singh (vice-captain), Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Raymon Reifer, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Keon Joseph, Christopher Barnwell.
Esaun Crandon is coach with Rayon Griffith assistant coach/manager).