‘Willet! Willet! Elquemedo Willet’! The words of the popular calypso done by Antigua’s Mighty Swallow constantly rang out across the old Grove Park yesterday as hundreds of cricketing enthusiasts, family members and general well wishers, all gathered to pay respect to the first Nevisian and Leeward Islander to make it into the West Indies team---Elquemedo Tonito Willet.

Willet accomplished this feat in 1973 at the tender age of 19 and many Nevisians gathered at Grove Park then to wish him every success and to laud his accomplishment. Now at age 57, he received another standing ovation at the same venue from an equally enthusiastic crowd—some 38 years later.

The program was superbly planned and coordinated by Permanent Secretary Mr. Alsted Pemberton and his team from the Ministry of Social Development and there was enough pomp and ceremony, pageantry and culture, fit for a King.

After the arrival and seating of the dignitaries, again wonderfully coordinated by the protocol Division of the Premier’s Ministry, Elquemedo Tonito Willet and his dear wife Sandrine made a grand entrance into Grove Park driven by a Police Officer in an impressive looking sports car. He was then escorted to the stage but not before passing under a sea of raised bats grandly held aloft in an impressive arch by the members of the St.Kitts and Nevis teams on hand.

Interestingly, most of the persons who performed a key part in the program would have played significant roles in the forward movement of Nevis cricket, whether on or off the field of play. G.Sydney Newton former all rounder for the Nevis team opened the batting with a solid invocation, while the National anthem was performed by little Devon Cornelius, a student at the Charlestown Primary School where Willet is a staff member.
Ms Sandra Liburd a member of the former Spartans’ club, Willet’s base club, rendered a welcome poem.

The program was ably chaired by local cricket commentator Walter Morton who set the stage for what was to come with a brief address outlining some of the feats accomplished by the great leg spinner and now Coach.

President of the Nevis Cricket Association Ronald Powell showered praise on the great man and asked the youngsters present to strive to emulate him as they progressed in their cricketing careers.

Former master batsman for Nevis and the Leeward islands, Livingstone Sargeant spoke to the mastery of Willet the spin bowler and of his superlative fielding and catching abilities.
Victor Eddy the former Kittitian and Leeward Island all rounder brought some extra pep to the ceremony with an introductory dance to Swallow’s song and with a lively presentation during which he described some of the battles he hah had with the great spin bowler. “This is the day the Lord has made—let us rejoice and be glad in it”, he said to thunderous applause.

Parliamentary representative for the constituency of ST. Paul’s, the Hon E. Robelto Hector proudly claimed the Government Road son and his achievements and noted that it was an honour truly deserved.

Minister of Sports Hon. Hensley Daniel was also high in praise for the great man and made the point of stressing that Willet paved paths for many other greats to follow.

Premier of the Nevis the Hon Joseph Parry, a natural historian, gave a historical perspective as to the significance of Willet’s achievement: He came out of an era when the people of St.Kitts and Nevis were mourning the colossal losses resulting from the sinking of the MV Christena and brought a ray of hope to the country. He also gave a vivid overview of the progress of cricket on Nevis and lauded the great man on his accomplishments.

Veteran commentator on Nevis Stevenson Manners made a superlative presentation in delivering an in-depth profile on the great man. He vividly outlined the remarkable statistics of Willet during his short stint on the West Indies team and explained that there was no logical reason why his stay was not much longer.

An impressive ten minutes video produced by Curtis Morton and Judith Dasent was shown featuring the great man.

The great man himself, humble as ever, then made his response and thanked the Nevis Island Government for the initiative and thanked all who made the day possible and all those who participated in the program . He was also high in praise for the support he has received from his sweetheart of thirty-five years, Sandrine and also his family members.

The crowning moment came when Willet assisted by Premier Parry pulled the strings to unveil the impressive new sign bearing the name: The Elquemedo T Willet Park. The sign was beautifully created by Mr. Carl Claxton and features a photograph of Willet captured by Sports Caster Curtis Morton

The program was interspersed with some wonderful cultural presentations which included steel pan renditions from the Teachers at the Charlestown Primary school; presentations by the junior and senior masquerades; calypsoes by Bahowlah the Meek and Mighty Jo Jo—both of which went down very well with the huge crowd.
At the end of the ceremony, many persons flocked to shake hands and pose for photographs with the great man.as they waited patiently for the commencement of another clash between St.Kitts and Nevis on the field of play.

Eddy and Puntan

Livingstone and Mrs. Sargeant

Ronald Powell and Keith Arthurton

The one and onle Dabbi

Vernon Springer, Malcolm Ramsey and Steve Manners

Section of crowd

Willet arrives

Cricketers with raised bats

Walter Morton

Hon E Robelto Hector

Hon Hensley Daniel

Willet-the man of the monment

Levis defeats St.Kitts in thriller

Immediately after the impressive renaming ceremony at the Elquemedo T Willet Park last evening, a Nevis team engaged a St.Kitts team in a very exciting 10/10 encounter.

Trevier Smithen the Nevis Captain won the toss and elected to bat first. In the prematch interviews he and St.Kitts’ captain, Codville Rogers both spoke to the fact that they were both excited to be a part of history –being a part of the first cricket match to be played at the newly renamed park.

Nevis was off to a rapid start led by Carlon Smithen and Kejel Tyson but both of them soon perished at the hands of the off spinner Berridge who bowled remarkably This let in Carlos Adolphus and Daynason Browne who both excited the crowd in an exhilarating partnership. Adolphus ducked into a snorter from fast bowler Berridge which split his helmet but that seems to have disturbed an ants’ nest. He reacted by flat batting the bowler ferociously over mid off for four and then followed up by pulling him savagely over midwicket dropping flat on the boundary rope for a tremendous six.

The Nevis team was bowled out on the very last delivery when Captain Trevier Smithen was run out attempting a second run. It meant therefore that the St.Kitts team had to make exactly 100 runs to gain a historic victory.

Nevis started with an early wicket as Ian Byron got Edwards to top edge, only to be magnificently caught by wicketkeeper Jamoy Pemberton. Captain Codville Rogers and Clarke then teamed up in an enterprising partnership. There was one over when Rogers took a liking to the bowling of Byron—top edging for a six and a four, then pulling savagely through midwicket for another boundary. It seemed all over by the shouting as St.Kitts rocketed to 41 for 1 after only 3 overs and there were some long faces at the newly renamed Park.

Captain Trevier Smithen took the ball and promptly clean bowled Rogers with his first delivery and then proceeded to snare the wicket of Clarke before his over was complete.

After that the procession started, the wind was completely removed from the sails of the St.Kitts ship. When the final delivery was bowled, St.Kitts had subsided to just 72 for the loss of 9 wickets.

The Nevis team’s fielding was a major factor in the victory. Carlon Smithen dived to stop what looked like a certain four and in one flowing motion got the ball back alongside the stumps to get rid of the dangerous Elsroy Powell. There were also two other run outs compliments of excellent fielding.

Summarized scores:
Nevis -99 all out: Daynason Browne 35; Carlos Adolphus 25; Kejel Tyson 15
Junie Mitchum 3 for 13; E.Berridge 2 for 12; Powell and Carey 1 wicket each.
St.Kitts—72 for 9---Codville Rogers 19; L.Clarke 15
Trevier Smithen 4 for 6; Akito Willet 1 for 10 and Ian Byron 1 for 29.

1. Codville Rogers
2. Calvin Williams
3. Terrance Warde
4. Christanja Carey
5. Leon Clarke
6. Lester Morrishaw
7. Shenno Berridge
8. Wilton Edwards
9. Elvin Berridge
10.Elsroy Powell
11. Levertte Taylor
12. Julian Benjamin
13. Junnie Mitcham

Leroy Percival - Manager
Kenny Douglas - Coach/Trainer
Charmine Brookes - SKCA Secretary

The Nevis male team reads:

Trevier Smithen-capt; Ian Byron-Vice capt; Akito Willet; Joseph Williams; Jamoy Pemberton; Nelson Boland; Kejel Tyson; Carlos Adolphus; Boye; Carlon Smithen; Duan Phillip; Andre Browne; Joel Simmonds; Jurnel Turner; Daynason Browne and Nigel Browne

The Combined Female squad that will engage Highlights females in the first match reads:

Nevilla Daniel—capt.; Judy Morton vice capt, Charmaine Walters; Camella Lawrence; Junella Burke; Giselle Skeete; Rozel Liburd; Catherine Joseph; Blondina Griffin; Chaliese Browne; Tasha Parris; Jasmine Herbert; Tessie Phillip and Rosie Dunrod
Coach—Patrick Newton

A bumper crowd is expected at Grove Park later today, for the 5pm start of the ceremony which will signal the renaming of Grove Park in honour of Elquemedo Willet.

WICB applauds Windwards for victory in TCL Group Challenge

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has congratulated the Windward Islands team for their triumph in the TCL Group Under-19 Challenge three-day tournament. The Windwards won their first title since 2000 when they defeated the Leeward Islands by seven wickets at Beausejour Cricket Stadium in St Lucia on Monday afternoon. They ended the tournament with 39 points – nine more than second-placed Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr Julian Hunte, president of the WICB paid tribute to the champions and hailed it as a triumph for the players, the team management and everyone who supports Windward Islands cricket.

“I want to congratulate captain Audy Alexander, coach Raymond Duncan, manager Sean Edwards, and all the members of the Windward Islands team for their outstanding performance in the TCL Group Under-19 Challenge three-day tournament. It is a result of hard work and commitment which led to the Windward players coming together and performing at their best. It was truly an overall team effort,” Dr Hunte said.

“Last year the Windwards had a rough time of it but this year they rebounded in fine style. Every time the chips were down someone came to the fore with the star performance the side required. I urge the team to continue to strive for excellence, both on and off the field, and be good ambassadors for the game of cricket.”

Dr Hunte added: “Congratulations should also go out to the administration at the Windwards Board and everyone in the sub-region who has a played a part in the development of these young men. This victory is a triumph for all those who have contributed to the cause.”

The Windwards will now look to do the double and win the TCL Group West Indies Under-19 One-Day (50-over) Trophy, which bowls off on Thursday.

Upcoming matches in the TCL Group West Indies Under-19 One-Day Trophy

Thursday July 29
Windwards v Barbados at Dennery
Leewards vs Guyana at Gros Islet
Jamaica v Trinidad and Tobago at Beausejour

Saturday July 31
Jamaica v Leewards at Dennery
Barbados v Trinidad and Tobago at Gros Islet
Windwards v Guyana at Beausejour

Sunday August 1
Windwards v Jamaica at Gros Islet
Leewards vs Trinidad and Tobago at Dennery
Barbados v Guyana at Beausejour

Tuesday August 3
Jamaica v Guyana at Gros Islet
Leewards v Barbados at Dennery
Trinidad and Tobago v Windwards at Beausejour

Wednesday August 4
Barbados v Jamaica at Dennery
Guyana v Trinidad and Tobago at Beausejour
Leewards v Windwards at Gros Islet

Eighties stars dominate West Indies all-time XI
Cricinfo staff

Five players from the all-star West Indies sides of the 80s have made it to Cricinfo's West Indies all-time Test XI: Gordon Greenidge, Viv Richards, Curtly Ambrose, Michael Holding and Malcolm Marshall.

Viv Richards was the one unanimous pick from that era. Garry Sobers, considered the world's greatest allrounder, and George Headley, nicknamed the black Bradman, were the other two to get all 10 votes.

Like in the Pakistan all-time XI, there are no current players in the XI, a reflection of the sorry state of two teams that were once world-class.

Greenidge was picked by nine jurors to open the innings, but his partner Desmond Haynes, with whom he made a record 16 century stands missed out; the other opener's spot went to Conrad Hunte, who opened in all of his 44 Tests for West Indies and scored over 3000 runs. Other prominent omissions were the three Ws and Andy Roberts.

Brian Lara made it to the middle order with six votes, while the gloves were given to Jackie Hendriks. Though Jeff Dujon and Clyde Walcott were the better batsmen, Hendriks got the nod over them because of his remarkable skills behind the wicket, including to spinners. And with a middle order that boasts Headley, Richards, Lara and Sobers, the XI can afford to have a pure keeper in the ranks.

The most debated-on position among the readers was that of the spinner: whether West Indies, with its fast-bowling pack, needed one. The jury thought they did, and all but one picked Lance Gibbs, the first spin bowler to take 300 Test wickets, over Sonny Ramadhin and Alf Valentine.

That left three fast-bowling spots, which went to Malcolm Marshall (nine votes), and to Michael Holding and Curtly Ambrose (six votes each).

Barbados, traditionally the powerhouse of Caribbean cricket, accounts for four players in the XI, followed by Jamaica with three.

We invited our readers to pick their XI, and their middle-order, fast-bowling, spinner and allrounder picks matched the jury's. Sobers got close to a unanimous vote for the allrounder's spot, while Gibbs got over 80%. A majority of readers picked the Greenidge-Haynes pair to open the innings, and over 77% voted for Dujon to keep wicket.

The jury included former Test player Jimmy Adams, journalists Tony Becca, Fazeer Mohammed and Garth Wattley, radio commentator Joseph Perreira, cricket historian Hilary Beckles, sports psychologist Rudi Webster, writers Ian McDonald and Frank Birbalsingh and former West Indies media manager Imran Khan.

The XI: Gordon Greenidge, Conrad Hunte, George Headley, Vivian Richards, Brian Lara, Garry Sobers, Jackie Hendriks, Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, Curtly Ambrose, Lance Gibbs.

Readers' XI: Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, George Headley, Viv Richards, Brian Lara, Garry Sobers, Jeff Dujon, Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, Curtly Ambrose, Lance Gibbs.

St.Kitts-Nevis wins first leg of under 17 Football tourney
(SKNVibes .com )

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE St. Kitts Under-17 football team has done its country proud by winning the first leg of the FIFA World Cup Championship Qualifiers last week while in Antigua.

The delegation left for Antigua on Monday, July 19 and returned yesterday (Jul. 26) after playing three matches and winning two.

In the first match, the team drew 2-2 with Antigua and was told that they had to beat the other teams by a larger margin in order to qualify.

The young ball weavers went on to play St. Maarten and Anguilla and they convincingly won both matches 7-1 and 12-nil respectively.

At a welcoming ceremony held in the VIP room at the RLB Airport, several officials, including Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Sports Lloyd Lazar, congratulate the team on its success.

Lazaar told the team that the ministry was delighted when it received information about the win.

I want to say congratulations to you young men, manager and the coach. We are looking forward to seeing you continue in your effort and continue to work hard, and to do the very best you can on the field of football and off,” he said.

President of the St. Kitts-Nevis Football Association Anthony Johnson thanked the government for providing the facilities where a camp was held leading up to the tournament. He also thanked the coaches, parents, motivational speakers and members of the corporate sector, as well as the Olympic Committee for their donations.

“Success in Antigua was a stepping stone for us in the development of football in St. Kitts. The next step is the round in Trinidad where you will be competing against two of the top seeded teams and a team from Cuba. We believe your success will inspire you to be confident when you travel to Trinidad. Don’t think you have made it, don’t think you have arrived, your success is one that we appreciate and we congratulate you, but we want you to work even harder, so the next time around you return victorious,” he said.
Allsiter Edwards, the team’s coach, said that he was proud of the young players and it is now back to hard work as they were set to meet on(Jul. 27) and resume training the next day.

In an interview with SKNVibes, Edwards said he wants the team to work harder in preparation for the next round.

In Trinidad they will compete against Trinidad, Cuba and the winner of the Northern Zone that has not been finalised as yet in The Bahamas.

“What I have seen of the Trinidad team…we can win. In terms of Cuba, I am not sure because they seem to concentrate more on having their guys together all the time; they train them and have them living on campus while we only imitate that for a very short period. So we will have to work hard and apply pressure on the teams,” he said.

Dominic Stevens of the SKNFA, who headed the delegation, said the Man of the Tournament award went to Kimarri Rogers who scored six goals in the tournament.
“Not only did he score six goals, but five of them were against Anguilla,” Stevens said.
He said that the team is scheduled to leave for Trinidad on Monday, August 16.
SKNVibes also spoke to some of the players, including goalkeeper Michael Henry Perez, who was said to have performed extremely well.

Athletics

Nevis gains five medals at CUT Games

Team Nevis returned home yesterday afternoon via the Sea bridge to a warm welcome from family members and well wishers having participated in the 13th biennial Caribbean Union of Teachers meet over the weekend—24th to 25th July 2010.

The team created history by gaining five medals. The first time that such a feat was accomplished having competed in the meet for the fifth time.
Seventeen teams participated in the prestigious event which was held at the Silver Jubilee stadium in St.Kitts.

Medals gained by team Nevis are as follows:

Field events:
Under 15 shot put males—Colin Archibald –bronze
Track events:
Under 11-- 400 meters male-Leroy Chapman—Bronze
Under 13-- 400m meters females-Uniqueo Willett-Bronze
Under 15--- 400 meters females—Renika Daniel—silver
Under 15—4X1 female relay—Team: Chloe Williams; Renika Daniel; Jessie Browne and Tyra Lewis—Bronze.

Uniqueo Willett, Chloe Williams and Leroy Chapman had some very good performances.
The team qualified for most of the events in the finals. They placed 3rd and 4th in the semi finals and 4th and 5th in the finals which is very commendable.

The Nevis Teachers Union wishes to congratulate the entire team, including the hard working Coaches: Elquemedo Willet, Shirman Caines, Jeffrey Lewis and Head Coach, Shefton Daniel.

Special thanks is expressed to the Nevis Island Government, the Education Department and other sponsors, parents and well wishers who all assisted in ensuring the team’s participation in the meet. Ralph Allen’s bus service, the Sea Bridge and the Mark Twain are all heartily thanked for their invaluable assistance in transporting the athletes and officials.

Gratitude is also expressed to the media houses for their tremendous promotion—Von radio, Choice fm and NTV channel 8.

PRO for the Nevis Teachers’ Union, Mrs Josette Myers is convinced that with adequate facilities, the Nevis athletes can achieve even more. She is therefore appealing to the corporate citizens on Nevis and relevant Government agencies ‘to give the youths the chance to shine’.

CUT games--Team Nevis

CUT games-Team Nevis winners with Coaches

CRICKET

Guidelines for the general Public for Renaming of Grove Park

Mr. Alstead Pemberton, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, yesterday revealed that everything is pretty much in place for the grand ceremony to rename Grove Park in honour of Elquemedo Willett. “The organizing committee met yesterday afternoon and the program that will guide the event was fine-tuned and certain plans were finalized which will ensure the smooth flow of the program”, he indicated.

Mr. Pemberton also revealed the following information which will serve as a general guide line for persons who intend to attend the ceremony:

1. The ceremony is set for 5.00 pm on Wednesday 28th July at Grove Park
2. Grove Park is currently closed to the Public until the conclusion of the renaming ceremony in order to facilitate preparatory work
3. There is an open invitation for the general public to attend the ceremony
4. There will be musical entertainment at Grove Park from as early as 4pm
5. Persons attending must be seated by 4.45 pm but must take guidance from the Ushers in attendance as to where they may sit
6. Parking at Grove Park will only be allowed to specific officials
7. All other persons are kindly asked to park at the Villa grounds or on the hillside at Grove Park at the Eastern end of the grounds.

Mr. Pemberton also noted that the program will include not only speeches but cultural presentations. The Nevis senior cricket team will very early in the proceedings give the honouree a grand welcome to the Park by allowing him to pas under their raised bats as a signal of respect for the great man.

Immediately after the actual ceremony, two very exciting 10/10 cricket matches will be played.

Teams Released for Renaming ceremony Matches

Two of the teams that will participate in two 10/10 matches after the ceremony to rename Grove Park on Wednesday 28th July, have been released.

The Nevis Cricket Association yesterday released its senior male squad that will engage a St.Kitts line up and also released a combined female team that will play in the first match of the evening.

Previously, a Nevis Female team was expected to engage their Kittitian counterparts but the ladies from SKB have declined the offer, citing insufficient practice.

Cricket chief on Nevis Ronald Powell however revealed that his Association moved swiftly to ensure that the spectators would still see some exciting female cricket. It has been finalized that the only unbeaten team in the league so far, in Highlights Int, will now engage a ‘best of the rest’ combined team, comprising of players from the other teams in the league.

The Combined Female squad reads:

Nevilla Daniel—capt.; Judy Morton vice capt, Charmaine Walters; Camella Lawrence; Junella Burke; Giselle Skeete; Rozel Liburd; Catherine Joseph; Blondina Griffin; Chaliese Browne; Tasha Parris; Jasmine Herbert; Tessie Phillip and Rosie Dunrod
Coach—Patrick Newton

The Nevis male team reads:

Trevier Smithen-capt; Ian Byron-Vice capt; Akito Willet; Joseph Williams; Jamoy Pemberton; Nelson Boland; Kejel Tyson; Carlos Adolphus; Boye; Carlon Smithen; Duan Phillip; Andre Browne; Joel Simmonds; Jurnel Turner; Daynason Browne and Nigel Browne

FOOTBALL

Football AGM upcoming

Members and Affiliates of the Nevis Football Association are hereby notified that the Annual General Meeting of the Nevis Football Association will be held on Saturday 21, August 2010 at 4.00pm at Nevis Co-operative Credit Union Building Chapel Street Charlestown .Two representative from each teams/clubs, individual members and officials are invited. All concerned are asked to take note and govern themselves accordingly.

This notice comes from the Nevis Football Association.

Horse racing

Officials from the Nevis Turf and Jockey Club have indicated that the annual Culturama Races are indeed on. The grand meet will be held on Monday 2nd August at the Indian Castle race track.

The gates will swing open at 2pm and the first race of the day commences at 3pm.
There will be fabulous food, a well stocked bar and musical entertainment all day long. Adults will only pay $20.00 to get in and children will pay half price.

Will the Presidential ‘OBAMA’ keep his crown?
All are invited to be present when this question is answered.

Basketball

Recent basketball results in the lime 2010 skaba league

The 2010 lime skaba basketball league resumed on sunday at basketball city following the heavy rainfall.

In the first game Joseph Parry Cotton Ground suffered their first loss of the season at the hands of defending champions horsfords ghetto roots. Ghetto roots was led by Berlie Francis with 15 points,8 rebounds and 2 assists. He was supported by Carlos Monzac 14 points,5 rebounds,and 2 steals. For Cotton Ground Jennerson France had 15 points,2 assists and he was supported by Royden Browne with 13 points, 5 steals 5 rebounds.and 3 assist.

In the second game on sunday St. Pauls Tuff Knotts defeated Shawn K Richards Chappurtin 106-78. St. Pauls was led by Clayton Powell 26 points,6 rebounds,6 assists and 3 steals; Narren Maynard 22 points,10 rebound,.4 assists,2 blocks and Nashorn Maynard13 points,10 rebounds,5 assists, 2 blocks. For Chappurtin Taslyn Hodge 20 points,4 steals. He was supported by his brother Javal Hodge with 15 points,and 4 steals.

Barbados win eliminator after tie
Cricinfo staff

Here is the result again: Barbados won the one-over eliminator after a tie against Combined Campuses and Colleges. Both teams were tied at the end of 20 overs and both were tied on 16 at the end of the eliminator as well. Barbados, however, clinched it because they had more boundaries in the entire contest.

The end was as confusing as it was thrilling. Barbados needed seven - six actually as they were ahead on the boundary count- from the last ball and Dwayne Smith pulled a short-of-length delivery towards the deep backward square-leg boundary where Romel Currency caught it. But to his horror, Currency stepped back and his foot touched the boundary rope. It was a six and Barbados had won.

Barbados 180 for 6 (Edwards 45, Morris 42) tied with Combined Campuses and Colleges 180 for 5 (Bascombe 48, Wiggins 39)
One-over eliminator CCC 16 tied with Barbados 16 (Barbados win because they scored more boundaries in the game)

Gutsy Guyana make winning start
Cricinfo staff

Guyana, one of the teams expected to make the semi-finals, started their campaign with a scrappy victory over Windward Islands in a see-saw game. Opener Travis Dowlin set up the chase of 158 with a composed half-century but till debutant Jonathan Foo bludgeoned 20 runs off the 18th over from Gary Mathurin, it was anybody's game.

It had been another Guyanese debutant, leg spinner Devendra Bishoo, who kept the target in check with three quick strikes in the middle of the Windwards innings. Opener Johnson Charles and wicketkeeper-batsman Andre Fletcher had powered Windwards to a strong 83 for 2 in the 12th over before Bishoo removed both in successive overs to derail the innings. It required a late cameo from former international, Rawl Lewis, to push Windwards to a total beyond 150.

Guyana 160 for 5 (Dowlin 60, Pascal 3-21) beat Windward Islands 157 for 8 (Charles 55, Cush 4-25, Bishoo 3-23) by five wickets

All-round Bernard helps Jamaica crush Canada
Cricinfo staff

Jamaica stormed to their second-consecutive nine-wicket win after drubbing Canada at the Kensington Oval to give themselves a good shot at the semi-finals. David Bernard starred with the ball to pick up three wickets to restrict Canada to an inadequate 101, and later combined with Xavier Marshall, who smashed another sparkling fifty, to make light work of the target with seven overs to spare.

It was a good toss to win for Tamar Lambert, who unleashed his seamers on a pitch which had generous bounce and seam movement early on. The Canada top order were found woefully short in technique, often playing and missing with little or no foot movement.

Jamaica 102 for 1 (Marshall 52, Bernard 36*) beat Canada 101 for 7 (Gordon 25, Bernard 3-13) by nine wickets

Fiery Pollard steers T&T to victory
Cricinfo staff

Until the final leg of the chase, Leeward Islands appeared to be ahead the contest but Kieron Pollard won the match in his own inimitable style, steering Trinidad & Tobago to their second successive victory of the tournament.

When Pollard entered the scene, T&T needed 80 from 41 deliveries. Until then, they had struggled; the top order had collapsed and Dwayne Bravo was cautious as he tried to rebuild. Runs were at a premium but it was exactly the sort of situation that made Pollard the Twenty20 star that he is. And in a blink of an eye the chase was over. Most of his seven sixes either flew deep into the stands or clattered on the roof but Pollard still gave the impression that he was playing within himself.
Pollard began his attack in the 15th over

Trinidad &Tobago 162 for 5 (Pollard 53*, Bravo 33*) beat Leeward Islands 161 for 7 (Mentore 48*, Javier Liburd 39) by five wickets

Foo and Cush give Guyana second win
Cricinfo staff

Guyana had some anxious moments halfway through their chase when they lost three of their senior batsmen in 10 deliveries, but another cameo from Jonathan Foo helped them pick up their second successive win and virtually assured them a spot in the semi-finals. Their bowlers had done the job earlier in the day, keeping Combined Campuses and Colleges to a modest total, with off spinner Lennox Cush taking a hat-trick in the final over.

Combined Campuses and Colleges 142 for 9 (Reifer 49, Cush 4-30) Guyana 143 for 6

Pakistan prevail in thrilling finale
Cricinfo

Pakistan's long, long wait for a Test victory over Australia finally came to an end amid scenes of excruciating tension on the fourth morning at Headingley, as a simple equation of 40 runs for victory with seven wickets still standing was made to look as complex as the proof to Fermat's Last Theorem. They eventually crept home with three men still standing, but their collective nerves in tatters, as Umar Gul launched the winning shot through the covers with the scores already level.

The margin of victory looked more comfortable than it felt, and that's putting it mildly. The eventual difference between the sides was the wicketkeeper, Kamran Akmal, whose 13 from 26 balls was as close as Pakistan came to a composed fourth-day performance. That said, had Akmal been given out caught in the gully with five runs still required, who knows what miracles might have transpired. Mike Hussey's low scoop was turned down by the TV umpire, but after Mohammad Aamer had edged another four to balance the books, Akmal slammed another chance which Hussey this time plucked to his left.

Pakistan 258 (Watson 6-33) and 180 for 7 (Farhat 67, Azhar 51) beat Australia 88 and 349 (Smith 77, Clarke 76) by three wickets

Bank of Nevis Coaching Clinic concludes on a high note

The 2010 Bank of Nevis cricket coaching clinic concluded on Friday 23rd July 2010. A brief but impressive closing ceremony was held at the Grell Hull-Stevens Netball Complex and this was chaired by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, Mr. Alstead Pemberton. In his opening remarks, Mr. Pemberton was high in praise for the Bank of Nevis and chief coordinator of the program, Mr. Carl Tuckett. He also thanked the parents for their cooperation with the programs and thanked all of the coaches for their input.

Prayer was delivered by Pastor Joseph Morton and the participating students sang the national anthem.

Ralph Allen addressed the gathering on behalf of the Coaches and thanked the Bank of Nevis for its support and urged the children to tell their parents to bank with the local institution.

Permanent Secretary Pemberton then interacted with the children and received feedback as what they had learned during the two week training session. Some of the children spoke to the learning of the fundamentals of the game of cricket while others mentioned manners and respect and one mentioned the learning of basic first aid skills.

Mr. Marcel Hanley spoke on behalf of the parents and he too was high in praise for the Bank of Nevis and to what he referred to as a ‘worthwhile venture’.

The feature address was delivered by Mr. Kevin Barrett, the Principal of the Charlestown Primary School who urged the children to make good choices—on and off the cricket field. His interactive session drew from the children the need to make good choices realizing that choices not only affect the individuals but also the wider community. He also asked them to choose the right type of friends.

Marketing Officer for the Bank of Nevis, Mrs. Bronte Swanston- Hendrickson indicated that the Bank was delighted to sponsor the event. She congratulated the children on their general good behaviour and thanked the coaches and all who made the coaching clinic possible. She also congratulated Tuckett on his great execution of program. She explained that her Bank was concerned about the economic well being of the people and the island. She urged those present to make the Bank of Nevis the ‘preferred Bank of choice’.
Chief Coordinator of the program Carl Tuckett then made some special presentations to the outsanding participants. They all received gifts, trophies and medals compliments of the Bank of Nevis. The following awards were made:

Special prize—Ryani Ferguson—100% for Maths and Science in the Test of Standards. He received a cricket bat.

MVP in the recent Primary school cricket league-Philo Wallace. He received one pair of pads, batting gloves and a ball. He had scored over 300 runs in the league.
Ages 7 and under

Most improved player--Patrice Nisbett

Most disciplined –Sylvester Gajor Jr

Ages 8 and 9
Most improved-Darrell Dalton
Most disciplined-Derrick Huggins

Age 10
Most improved –Marcus Duberry
Most disciplined Zai Jones

Age 11
Most improved-Dawvin Challenger
Most disciplined-Melissa Clarke

Ages 12 and 13
Most improved--Hasad Harvey
Most disciplined-Diandre Newton
Development squad
Most improved--Philo Wallace
Most disciplined--Yogodan Cyril

The children for the most improved awards received trophies while those who were most disciplined received medals.

The Bank of Nevis also made five special presentations of five youth saver accounts to five outstanding participants at the clinic: Philo Wallace; Ryani Ferguson; Kareem Parry; Melissa Clarke and Ravi Sewdat. Each of the awardees will receive not only the youth saver account but also a starting balance of $100.00 EC.

The ceremony concluded with Clydre Smithen and Carl Tuckett teaming up to deliver the vote of thanks.

Young cricketers belt out the national anthem

Permanent Secretary Pemberton

Ralph Allen

Marcel Hanley

Kevin Barrett

Bronte Swanston Hendrickson

Ryani Ferguson receives award

Melissa Clarke

MVP --Philo Wallace

All the awardees

GOLF

Maxwell Liburd ‘Nevis open’ champion

Maxwell Liburd of Stoney Grove, clinched the inaugural ‘Nevis open’ Golf tournament played over the weekend. The tournament ran over two days—Staurday 24th and Sunday 25th July and was staged at the prestigious Four Seasons Golf course..
Liburd was gracious in victory and congratulated the other participants for a great tournament. He indicated that he started badly on Saturday but managed to concentrate sufficiently to edge ahead and maintain the lead on Sunday.
He is looking forward to representing Nevis at the regional level and beyond.

One of the main organizers of the tournament Vance Rawlins, indicated that plans are afoot to shortly formalize a Golf Association on the island. He stated that there are quite a number of persons on Nevis—locals and expats who play the game on a regular basis and they feel strongly that it is now time to take the game to another level, organize local annual tournaments and also get representatives to participate in regional tournaments.

Another of the main organizers Robert Byron, who is a local Golf Pro at Four Seasons, was high in praise for Marlon Brando who sponsored the main trophy and prizes for the tournament. He explained that the tournament was played using net scores instead of gross scores and was tabulated minus handicaps. He is locking forward to the formation of the Association as he is convinced that this will help to take the game on Nevis to another level.

Marlon Brando who is a Taxi driver by profession indicated that he loves to play the game in his spare time and describes himself as ‘average’. He said that he tried really hard to win the tournament on the weekend but Liburd was just too good this time around. He is convinced that he will win next year however and pledged his continued support of the sport on Nevis.

The tournament lasted for two days with Saturday posting 2 rounds and Sunday posting the final round. The participants for the Nevis Amateur Golf Classic were Robert Byron , Marlon Lonke aka Marlon Brando , Kurt Lake , Cedric Jeffers , Wayne Tyson , Orville Daniel , Vance Rawlins and Maxwell Liburd. After the first round of play the leader board showed that Maxwell Liburd was first, posting a net score of 72 , Robert Byron was in second with a net score of 73 and Wayne Tyson in third place with a net score of 74. The second round showed some shuffling with Maxwell Liburd still at the top of the leader board with 76 , Kurt Lake taking the second spot with 75 and Robert Byron at third with 81, So the first day of play saw Maxwell Liburd with a cumulative score of 149, Kurt Lake in second with cumulative score of 151 and Robert Byron at third with 153. The final day of play saw Maxwell Liburd finishing off with a net of 73 to complete his score of 222 , Wayne Tyson posting a net of 75 to complete his round with 230 and Robert liburd completing his round with 77 to finish with 231

Closest to the pin winner was Robert Byron on hole number 16 and the longest drive was won by Cedric Liburd on whole number 8. The winner was Maxwell Liburd,’ second place was Wayne Tyson and third place was Robert Byron.

Local Golfers pose for camera--l to r-- Vance Rawlins, Marlon Brandio, Robert Byron==in front with tropgy is Maxwell Liburd

Local Golf champ--Maxwell Liburd

More postponements in Female league

Cricket lovers on Nevis will have to wait a while longer before an overall winner in the 2010 female cricket league is determined. Late Thursday afternoon a release from the Nevis Cricket Association indicated that the one off finals which had been planned for that same evening had been further postponed.

According to President of the Nevis Cricket Association Ronald Powell, the decision this time around was not based on the weather conditions which have taken heavy toll of the finals so far but this time it was due to other circumstances which basically involved the unavailability of some players and there was also the very important factor of the official opening of Culturama to be considered with all of the pomp and ceremony and fireworks in nearby downtown Charlestown.

The Association now intends to revert to the original best of three format and the plan is to have the matches staged immediately on the completion of the Culturama festivities.

However, whatever is finalized will be relayed to the general public in due time.

Bowlers, Barath seal easy win for T&T
Cricinfo staff

The inaugural Caribbean T20 had a low-key beginning in a fairly one-sided encounter at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. In front a sparse crowd, Trinidad and Tobago, led by their bowlers and opener Adrian Barath, delivered a clinical performance to upstage Canada, who were never really in with a chance after posting a below-par score.
The inexperience showed at the top of the order for Canada, as the openers, after being put in, struggled often to get bat to ball and adapt to the variations in length from the T&T seamers. Trevin Bastiampillai consumed 11 balls for his one run before succumbing to a short delivery that produced a top edge to the wicketkeeper. His partner Hiral Patel only did slightly better, scoring nine off 26, but received a painful blow to the back of the ear when he failed to get out of the way of a meaty drive from Geoff Barnett. His agony at the crease, however, was terminated when he holed out in the 11th over with not many on the board

Trinidad & Tobago 111 for 1 (Barath 66*) beat Canada 110 for 8 (Mohammed 2-10) by nine wickets

Marshall Fifty steers Jamaica to victory
Cricinfo staff

The Jamaican bowlers operated with discipline and control to restrict Leeward Islands to a low total at the Kensington Oval while Leeward, on the other hand, were shoddy, conceding too many extras during their defence. Their fielders dropped catches too and therein lay the difference between the two sides.

Leewards openers, Javier Liburd and Shane Jeffers, made a steady start in front of a crowd that had grown in numbers since the poor turnout for the Caribbean T20's opening game. They added 29, and then Liburd crashed Gayle over the midwicket boundary, before he spooned the next delivery to Tamar Lambert at cover. The score was 35 for 1 after six but it got much worse for Leewards in the next over.

Left-arm medium-pacer Krishmar Santokie, in his first over, bowled Jeffers, who played across the line to a straight one and missed. Leeward's captain Wilden Cornwall also committed a similar error next ball and lost middle stump, leaving Santokie on a hat-trick at the end of a double-wicket maiden. He should have got one too, but the umpire did not uphold an appeal for lbw against Tonito Willett, who capitalised on his left-off by glancing for four.

Jamaica after a slow start and the run out of Gayle who seemed set to explode, eventually cruised to victory on the back of a half century from a somewhat fortunate Xavier Marshall and a coolly composed Marlon Samuels on his return to international cricket after serving his two year ban.

Jamaica 126 for 1 (Marshall 62*) beat Leeward Islands 124 for 7 (Willett 37, Santokie 3-20, Gayle 2-19) by nine wickets

General sports

Coaching clinics to close today

Two Coaching clinics will officially close today after a two week stint. Over at the St.Thomas’ Primary School, the Eddy Richards Football Coaching clinic will conclude with a brief ceremony at 10.30 am this morning. More than forty young footballers attended the clinic and were coached in the basic skills of Football which included the skills of dribbling, passing, controlling and shooting. The potential goal keepers also had several lessons compliments of Coach Eddy Caines himself, a former Nevis goal keeper and Masefield Nisbett who also was a custodian in the Nevis goal in former times.

Richards also ensured that quite a number of motivational speeches were made by certain distinguished members of the community who sought to guide the youngsters in terms of their overall lifestyles.

Later at Grove Park, it will be the closing exercises of the Bank of Nevis sponsored Cricket coaching clinic. The closing ceremony in this clinic will take place at about 11am at Grove Park.

The sessions in the fundamentals of the game of cricket were badly hampered by rain but chief Coordinator of the program, Carl Tuckett indicated that quite a bit was achieved during the period.