THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) successfully defended their Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup title after holding their nerves to secure a thrilling two-run victory over the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in a nail-biting final played last Thursday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary.
Batting first, the defending champions posted 142 for six from their allotted 20 overs, with Stephen Harris producing a superb unbeaten knock of 71 from 58 deliveries, which included six fours and two sixes.
GPF found themselves in early trouble after Captain Ravindradat Budhram and Ronald Alli were both dismissed without scoring, leaving Police at 9 for two. Troy Benn contributed 21 from 24 balls before Harris anchored the innings and guided his side to a competitive total.
For GDF, Reon Lall was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets for just 13 runs from his four overs. Randy Wade and Andre McFarlane also picked up one wicket each.
Set 143 for victory, GDF pushed the defending champions all the way but ultimately fell agonisingly short, finishing on 140 for six from their allotted 20 overs.
Seanden David-Longe led GDF’s charge with 39 from 27 deliveries, including three fours and three sixes, while Rockael Reddy contributed 34 from 41 balls and Hakeem David made a brisk 19 from 12 deliveries.
With the match going down to the wire, the Police bowlers held their composure under pressure to successfully defend the total.
Harris completed an outstanding all-round performance by taking two wickets for just 16 runs from his four overs. Trevor Benn, Troy Benn and Collin Sullivan each claimed one wicket, while GPF wicket-keeper Raheem Haynes was involved in three dismissals, taking two catches and completing a run-out.
When the final delivery was bowled, GDF had reached 140 for six, just two runs short of GPF’s 142 for six, sparking celebrations among the Police team at Eve Leary as they successfully retained the Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup.
It was a fitting end to a nail-biting final, with the defending champions pushed to the very last ball before holding their nerve to retain the title. (GPF release)
