THE Guyana Jaguars squad departed from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport early yesterday morning for Antigua, where they begin their title defence on Thursday, when Round 1 of the 2020 Regional 4-Day Tournament bowls off.

It was an early 5:30am flight which saw the Leon Johnson-led Jaguars flying out with much confidence and form after two successful practice games at Providence.

Guyana  have won the title 5 years in a row and is seeking  a record of 6 straight title wins with Johnson possibly being the only Guyanese to win the title 6 times.

With just two new caps among the seniors in Niall Smith– the young fast-bowler– and dynamic all-rounder Kevin Sinclair, Guyana will want to continue their dominance which stretched more that five years in the Professional Cricket League Regional (PCL).

Johnson, opener Chandrapaul Hemraj, wicket-keeper Anthony Bramble, Sinclair, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Keon Joseph,  and a returning Devendra Bishoo, were the main highlights following the practice games.

The skipper, along with Hemraj, hit tons while Bramble, Chanderpaul, and Sinclair had fifties. Bishoo and Joseph had 5-wicket hauls, while Raymon Reifer and Chris Barnwell were equally good with runs and wickets in both departments.

Johnson, in an interview with Chronicle Sport a few days ago, stressed on the importance of batting long after his side failed to make a solid score in the first practice match, despite a good showing from the senior bowlers.

They, however, corrected their errors in the second game as they all weighed in with runs and chalked up a 250-plus score against a creditable attack, gaining much confidence ahead of Thursday’s opening round. (Clifton Ross)

Guyana Jaguars squad : Leon Johnson (Captain),Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Chanderpaul Hemraj,

Christopher Barnwell, Vishaul Singh, Devendra Bishoo, Tevin Imlach, Keon Joseph, Raymon Reifer,

Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul, Nial Smith and Kevin Sinclair 

 Esuan Crandon – Coach

Shivnarine Chanderpaul – Assistant Coach & Manager

Neil Barry – Physiotherapist