AFFIANCE Sports Club secured a thrilling 17-run victory over rivals Reliance Hustlers Sports Club in the opening round of the North Essequibo Cricket Committee (NECC) Samaroo Investment T20 competition, exacting sweet revenge for their previous final defeat.

The match, played at the Reliance Sports Ground, saw Affiance post a respectable 161-9 from their reduced 17 overs after being asked to bat first.

Navindra Persaud led the charge with a composed 48, supported by Parmesh Parsotam (42) and Mohindar Balbadar (33). Reliance’s Ryan Shivamber (3-24) and Rovindra Parsram (2-40) were the pick of the bowlers.

In reply, Reliance Hustlers fell short, reaching 144-5 in their 17 overs.

Raj Gourdeen’s impressive 67, featuring five sixes and three fours, and Nathan Persaud’s 40 provided resistance, but Bhadesh Parsotam (3-29) and Parmesh Parsotam (2 wickets) led Affiance’s bowling attack to victory.

The reduced overs were due to a delayed start.

In another match at the same venue, Renegades cruised to a 10-wicket victory over Reliance Sports Club. Reliance Sports Club, batting first after winning the toss, could only manage 54-5 in their eight overs.

Renegades chased down the target with ease, leaving 37 balls unused. The competition continues today with matches across the Essequibo Coast, Region Two.