By Samuel Peters
The Leeward Islands Hurricanes concluded their final intrasquad practice match at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, where Team Hayden and Team Rahkeem battled through three days of competitive cricket before rain forced a draw.
Day one saw Team Hayden’s decision to field first pay dividends as they restricted Team Rahkeem to 214 all out, with Kadeem Henry‘s patient 108 being the highlight. Captain Hayden Walsh Jr. led the bowling effort with four for 49, while Cameron Pennyfeather and Chamequiko Landerfort each claimed two wickets.
Daniel Doram emerged as the star performer on day two, claiming 5/57 to help dismiss Team Hayden for 225. Tyrone Williams Jr’s fighting 76 and useful contributions from Jewel Andrew (31) and captain Shelton Forbes 25 provided resistance, while Akadianto Willett supported Doram with three for 35.
The third day saw Team Rahkeem strengthen their position through outstanding batting performances from Demari Benta 90 and Elroy Francis Jr 75, who helped their team reach 291/9. However, with Team Hayden on 74 for 3 in their second innings, featuring Ross Powell’s solid 28 and Andrew unbeaten on 26, rain intervened to end the match prematurely.
The practice match showcased several impressive individual performances, including Doram’s five-wicket haul and centuries from Henry, Benta, and Francis Jr. Despite the weather-affected conclusion, the three-day fixture provided valuable match practice for the Hurricanes squad as they prepare for upcoming competitions.
