Georgetown, Guyana – Demerara made a commanding start to the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-17 Inter-County 50-Over Tournament on Sunday, defeating the Select XI by a massive 177 runs at the Transport Sports Club Ground. The victory was powered by an explosive innings from Shamar Apple and a clinical bowling performance by the Demerara attack.
Batting first, Demerara posted an imposing total of 298 all out in 49.1 overs. Apple, playing on his home turf, led the charge with a blistering knock of 83 off just 58 balls, smashing eight sixes and four fours during his innings. His aggressive batting set the tone for Demerara, despite a mid-innings slump that saw them lose four quick wickets after reaching 178-2. Contributions from Emmanuel Lewis (42), Dave Mohabir (32), Parmeshwar Ram (31), and Marcel Nandu (31) helped stabilize the innings and push the team to their formidable total.
The Select XI bowlers struggled to contain Demerara’s batting lineup, with Shane Prince picking up 3-60 and Dennis Crossman and Arun Gainda claiming two wickets each.
In response, the Select XI faltered under pressure, managing only 121 runs before being bowled out in 25.4 overs. Gibran Yacoob was the lone bright spot for the side, scoring 44 off 58 balls, while Richard Ramdeholl contributed 13 runs. None of the other batsmen managed double figures as Demerara’s bowlers dominated proceedings.
Jonathan Mentore (2-8), Parmeshwar Ram (2-17), Patrice Fraser (2-19), and Munesh Outar (2-33) were among the top wicket-takers for Demerara, showcasing their depth in bowling talent.
The emphatic win puts Demerara in a strong position early in the tournament as they aim to reclaim the championship title. The GCB U-17 Inter-County Tournament continues today with Demerara facing Essequibo at LBI and Berbice taking on Select XI at Transport Sports Club Ground.
This tournament serves as a critical platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills and vie for national selection ahead of Cricket West Indies’ Rising Stars Regional Under-17 Tournament later this year in Trinidad and Tobago. As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on emerging talents like Shamar Apple, who has already made a strong impression with his match-winning performance.
