Defending champions Santa Cruz Sports cruised to a six-wicket victory over Barataria Ballplayers in the North Zone T20 Festival at the Diego Martin Complex on Wednesday night, chasing down 191 with 11 balls to spare.
Set 191 to win, Santa Cruz were led by a polished, unbeaten 58 off 36 balls from captain Chadeon Raymond, who struck six fours and a six to anchor the reply.
He found strong support from Brian Yearwood (43 off 25) and Kashma Mitchell (41 off 22), the pair’s attacking strokes keeping the chase on track despite early breakthroughs.
Barataria had earlier posted 190 for six, built around a composed 62 from opener Clifton Halls and a blistering 53 off 27 balls from Dejourn Charles, who cleared the ropes six times.
Their efforts, however, were blunted by Santa Cruz’s disciplined finish, with Raymond also chipping in with the ball, taking 1 for 31 from four overs.
Dexter Sween (2 for 38) briefly threatened to derail the pursuit, but Raymond’s calm hand ensured there would be no late drama.
The result sees Santa Cruz start their Group A campaign on a winning note, while Barataria will be left to rue a costly 21 wides in their bowling effort that ultimately tipped the balance.
Chadeon Raymond was named Player of the Match for his 58 off 36 balls and 1 for 31 from four overs
On Thursday, Bourg Mulatresse CCC are carded to take on Shannon Sports in a Group 2 fixture from 6:30 pm.
Summarized scores: Barataria Ball Players 190 for 6 in 20 overs (Clifton Halls 62, Dejourn Charles 53; Shaquille John 2/50, Brian Yearwood 1/30, Chadeon Raymond 1/31) vs. Santa Cruz Sports 193-4 in 18.1 overs (Chadeon Raymond 58*, Brian Yearwood 43, Kashma Mitchell 41; Dexter Sween 2/38, Marlon Phillip 1/17, Dejourn Charles 1/25). Santa Cruz won by six wickets.
