LAST Sunday was a most memorable day for cricket fans in the Upper Corentyne area. It was the final of the 4R T/20 competition organised by the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association and played at the Crabwood Creek Sports ground.Watched by a vociferous crowd of approximately two thousand persons, the No. 69 Vikings defeated No. 70 A by 6 wickets.
The final was a thrilling encounter and fans had to wait until the penultimate over to celebrate or grieve. No. 70 A was sent in to bat, and rattled-up 134 in the 20 overs. Harrit top-scored with 34 to see his team through to 134. No 69 Vickings got off to a slow start; however, Tameshwar Persaud with an attractive 58 not out pushed his team home with 1.1 over to spare.
The winning team collected $100 000.00 and a trophy while the losing finalist carted off $25 000.00 and a trophy.
There were many other prizes up for grabs: MVP of the tournament, centurions, and those with five-wicket hauls.
The tournament was sponsored by 4 R under the blessings of its managing director of 4 R Bearings, Ricky Deonarain. Twenty teams participated in the competition which was played on a home and away basis, which saw 166 matches played before the finals.
Thirty gate prizes were also given away, compliments of 4 R and Mikes Pharmacy. Rohan’s Auto Spares also chipped in with cash incentives. The prizes included T-shirts and clocks.
The final was preceded by an exhibition match featuring Crabwood Creek and No. 48, which was won by Crabwood Creek.
Romeo Deonarain, the son of Ricky Deonarain, bowled 6 deliveries and faced 6 balls to see the final off. For his fearless play, the 9-year-old contributed 28 T-shirts to both teams.
The Upper Corentyne Cricket Association thanked Mr Deonarain and family for their generous sponsorship. The day was a great success.