QUEENSTOWN S.C played unbeaten in the Central Essequibo Under- 17 round-robin 40-over competition and was crowned  champions on Saturday after defeating Bacchus Bulls at the Imam Bacchus ground in Affiance.

After being asked to bat first on a sluggish outfield and a slow pitch, Queenstown S.C batted in small but useful partnerships to accumulate 152-8 in 35 overs.

Opener Romal Hubbard was solid to top-score with 36 (3×4) and with Rany Ragoobeer 34 (2×4, 1×6) and Mahindra Partab 23 (2×4), they ensured that Queenstown posted a challenging total. National Under -17 all-rounder, Sheldon Charles 2-15 from 7 overs and Rajindra Ramballi 2-28 from his 7 overs were the main wicket-takers.

In reply, Bacchus Bulls succumb to the early pressure of spin as the pitch began to wear rapidly. National under-17 selectee, Azizi Christiani, who opened the bowling with his off-spin, was lethal and grabbed 3-21 from 7 overs to wreck the Bulls.

 He was assisted by Mahindra Partab, who capped off an excellent all-round performance by claiming 3-24 from 7 overs of off-spin as well. Sheldon Charles returned to top-score with 28 (5×4) and Govinda Tulsie 26 (3×4) but the others were dismissed cheaply as the Bulls capitulated for 99 all out in 33 overs to lose by 53 runs.

During the presentation ceremony, Essequibo Cricket Board Secretary, Autto Christiani, expressed gratitude to the Central Essequibo Cricket Committee, Businessman Harrischan Ramballi and Bacchus Group of Companies for their support and sponsorship of the competition.

 He further stated that similar tournaments will be organized in the future as the Committee seeks to promote and develop young talent and prepare them for the national level. Meanwhile, Sheldon Charles was adjudged the best batsman after amassing the most runs, including a century, while Azizi Christiani was adjudged the Best Bowler for taking the most wickets. Queenstown S.C received a monetary prize and the winning trophy.