QUEENSTOWN engineered an upset win against Bacchus Bulls last Saturday in the Central Essequibo-sponsored Under-17 competition.

Playing at the Number 1 ground in Affiance, Bacchus Bulls were asked to take first strike on a seemingly underprepared pitch. Despite the conditions, national Under-17 captain Sheldon Charles was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting display by the Bulls.

Charles was in vintage mood smashing nine sixes and four fours in his majestic 79, but he received little support from the other end. The next best score was 16 from Govinda Toolsie as the Bulls were all-out for 157 in 35 overs.

National Under-17 selectee Azizi Christiani had impressive figures of 4-19 from 8 overs bowling off-spin. He received admirable support from Perry Deane 2-2 and Randhi Raghubir 2-23.

A firm opening stand of 78 between Romol Hubbard, who top-scored with 37, and Randi Raghubir 30, shifted the balance in Queenstown’s favour. However, when they departed, a mini collapse occurred, as they lost 6 wickets in quick succession. Charles with 2-11 and Raphael David 2-14 bowled accurately but in vain.

It was the burly Azizi Christiani, though, who stepped in to smash an entertaining 26 that proved decisive as Queenstown held their composure to reach 158-6 in 29 overs for a memorable 2-wicket victory.

At Reliance ground, the hosts were stunned by Richmond Youths who gained a 3-wicket win. Fluent half-centuries from Abdool Mohamed 52 (10×4) and Rovin Persaud 50 (8×4) propelled Reliance to 143 all-out in 38 overs.

It proved not enough as Andy Dass 45 (7×4) and Jamal Stewart 36 (3×6, 2×4) batted enterprisingly to steer Richmond to 145-7 in 36 overs.

The 40 overs round-robin competition will continue on Saturday as the teams battle for trophies and other prizes. (Elroy Stephney)