Western duo stumble in 'Super Eights'

Western Bureau: Western Jamaica's bid to win the $600,000 cash prize on offer in the 2011 SDC Twenty20 cricket competition came to an abrupt end last weekend when the region's two representatives, Westmoreland's Broughton CC and Hanover's Elgin Town CC, were both beaten in 'Super Eight' action at Eden Park in St Mary.

The Paul Palmer Jr-led Broughton, who topped Group C of the regional play-off heading into the 'Super Eight', suffered a three-wicket loss to St Ann's champions Content Gardens CC, while Elgin Town, who finished second to Broughton in Group C, suffered a big 94-run loss to Old Harbour, the tournament's wild card entry.

By virtue of their 'super eight' defeats, the western duo bow out of the contention empty-handed as only the four semi-finalists are slated to derive financial benefits. The breakdown of prize money reads as follows: The champion - $600,000, second place - $300,000, third place - $200,000, and fourth $100,000.

Batting first in their game against Content Gardens, the powerful Broughton batting could only manage 173 for six off their allotment of 20 overs. Vanneil Broomfield, with an attacking 51 off 30 balls; and former national player Cleveland Davidson, with 29, got most runs.

blazing knock

Bowling for Content Gardens, Valentine McKenzie bagged four for 21 off four overs.

In reply to Broughton's total, a rampant Content Gardens, behind a blazing knock of 61 off 23 balls by Howard Harris, sealed victory at 178 for seven with a mere five balls to spare. Harris struck five sixes and five fours in his innings.

Only Clive Thomas, who took three wickets for 22 off four overs, figured prominently with the ball for Broughton, as André Thompson also got among the runs for Content Gardens, scoring 53.

In their game, Elgin Town were taken to task by Old Harbour, who made 219 for two in 20 overs, batting first. West Indies player Andre Russell got a stroke-filled 127 in the demolition of the Hanover attack. Pete Salmon also got 51.

In their turn at bat, Elgin Town's batting faltered badly, as they were brushed aside for a mere 124 all out off 14 overs. Shion McFarlane was the only batsman to demonstrate real survival skills, top-scoring with 35.

Bowling for Old Harbour, Salmon rounded off a good all-round performance, taking three for 10. Roman Powell also got among the wickets, taking two for 20.