Batsmen shine at trial

Half-centuries from Andre McCarthy, young Guyanese opener Trevon Griffith and Brandon King highlighted yesterday's third and penultimate day of Jamaica Scorpions' sixth and final trial match at Sabina Park.

McCarthy who scored an undefeated 163 in the fifth trial fixture, topscored with 63 while Griffith and King hit 57 apiece, as Paul Palmer's XI, batting a second time, were dismissed for 317. This is to go with their equally competitive first innings total of 302.  Also getting among the runs were wicketkeeper Chadwick Walton 36, and, all-rounder, David Bernard Jr, 26.

Campbell's XI, set a victory target of 309, were six without loss when stumps were drawn.

Left-arm spinner Patrick Harty with four for 81 was the top wicket taker yesterday while there were two wickets each for fast bowlers Marquino Mindley and Nicholson Gordon.

"The game is a competitive one, and interestingly poised, and is the sort of encounter we wanted at this stage of our preparation," said Jamaica coach, Junior Bennett.

"The only regret is that despite so many fifties, none of the batsmen in either has gone on to triple figures.

"However, there is a day to go and let's hope that will happen."