With the Ishan Ali trophy already secured for their dominance in the shorter version of the game, Barbados’ 13 and Under cricketers yesterday started the quest for the Malcolm Marshall trophy.
Playing at Empire’s Bank Hall ground, the Bajan youngsters made a promising start to their three-day “test” against their counterparts from Trinidad and Tobago, dominating the first day’s play on a sun-baked Sunday.
But talented Trinidadian batsman Brandon Maraj made sure the Bajans worked for their advantage.
Barbados won the toss and sent in the Trinis to bat and Maraj battled as wickets fell around him, to reach 49 before Trinidad were all out for 119.
Trinidad’s other double figure scorers were Emilio Bopaul (16) and Daniel Williams (14).
Shamar Springer, Jadeja Edwards and Hasani Newton swung the game in Barbados’ favour with their bowling. Springer, with his lively pace, earned three wickets, whilst conceding just 25 runs. Newton and Edwards were brilliant in support, also collecting three wickets.
Barbados did lose two wickets in reply to finish the day on 82 for two, but Newton completed a superb all-round day, reaching 47 not out. His partner Nicholas Kirton also batted intelligently, to reach 31 not out at the close. (JM)