Veteran West Indies wicketkeeper/batsman Denesh Ramdin turned back the clock with a match-winning century to lead Woodland Sports Club to an eight-run victory over Police in the Premiership II final of the CPL/TKR Twenty20 Festival at Queen’s Park Oval in St Clair on Saturday, March 22.

The 39-year-old Ramdin carved a masterful unbeaten 100 from 65 balls to rescue his side from early trouble and guide them to a competitive total of 168 for six.

Coming to the crease with Woodland reeling at 18 for three, Ramdin calmly rebuilt the innings, first sharing a 41-run partnership with Saiba Batoosingh (14), then combining with Ryan Ramdial (25) for a crucial 48-run stand for the fifth wicket. He brought up his century in style, smashing 18 runs off the final over to finish with 12 fours and three sixes.

Ramdin’s fireworks at the death helped Woodland score 64 runs in the final five overs, giving their bowlers a total to defend. Seamer Darius Besai led the Police bowling with two for 25, while Riley ended with one for 37.

In response, Police looked well on course to retain their title. After a brief cameo from Matheus Komal, who was removed by former Windies pacer Shannon Gabriel, Police surged to 116 for one in the 14th over, thanks to a fluent 104-run partnership between Kyle Roopchand (56 off 34) and Brendan Boodoo (67 not out off 51).

But just as Police appeared to have the match in hand, former West Indies off-spinner Ryan Hurley—still sharp at 49—turned the tide. Hurley removed Roopchand via a top edge and struck again soon after as Police collapsed to 123 for four after 16 overs. Rakesh Maharaj also chipped in with a timely wicket, putting Woodland firmly in the driver’s seat.

Stephan Wharwood’s late 14 gave Police a glimmer of hope, but once James Duncan dismissed him in the 19th over, the pressure mounted. Police needed 22 from the final over, and although Boodoo launched Gabriel over mid-wicket for six off the fourth delivery, the seasoned pacer held his nerve to see Woodland home.