Regal Masters extend winning streak

WITH an eye on the fast-approaching New York Independence Softball Cup, Regal Masters whipped Albion Masters by 9 wickets with 50 balls to spare on Sunday, at the Everest Cricket Club ground, in the latest action of the Ink Plus, Crown Mining Enterprise and Elegance Jewellery softball tournament, which is organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. (GSCL Inc).

The outfield was wet due to early morning showers which made batting and fielding more challenging but still the teams served up a good contest.
The Berbicians had first knock but were faced with tough bowling from Regal Masters and the heavy outfield, and managed to score 85 for 3 from their 20 overs with the white ball.
Rickey Deonarain, who batted for most of the Albion Masters innings top-scored with a patient 35 (2×4, 1×6) while skipper John Sumair grafted for 24 (1×4).

Opposite captain, Mahendra Hardyal, who got the initial breakthrough was also economical, conceding 10 runs from his four overs while Throy Kippins (1-14) and Parsram ‘Pacer’ Persaud 1-15) were also among the wickets.

Regal openers, Mahesh Chunilall and Eon Abel, went to work on the soggy wicket and put on 60 runs in just over eight overs to take the wind out of the sails for Albion Masters.
The lone casualty in an otherwise well-composed run-chase was Abel, who missed a full ball from Sahadeo Kissoon and was bowled after pushing around for 19 (2×4) but by then the writing was on the wall.

Chunilall and Fazleen Mohamed then saw the city side reach their target to finish on 86 for 1 from 11.4 overs with lots of time to spare. Regal Masters have now extended their winning streak to five games after an opening round upset. Mohamed hit a six in his cameo of 17 while Chunilall finished on 43 (4×4; 1×6). Kissoon who bowled his four overs on the trot ended with 1-12.

In an invited comment after the game, Hardyal said, “We (Regal Masters) are happy for the little practice and with the winning momentum in the tournament as we head to New York. The conditions prevented a much better game, but we are still thankful that Albion came down.”

The New York Independence Cup takes place in Queens, New York from June 29 to July 1. Regal Masters and Regal All-Stars will be looking to recapture the coveted ‘double’ again this year.

In their quest for supremacy, the teams have so far received support from the National Sports Commission, Fly Jamaica Airways, Ink Plus and Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.