In a thrilling encounter at the Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St. Augustine, Trinidad on Sunday, Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) orchestrated a sensational two-wicket victory over the Windward Islands Volcanoes in the CG United Insurance Super 50 Cup, with Shane Dowrich emerging as the star of the day.
Facing a challenging target of 268 after the Windward Islands posted a total of 267-8 from their allotted 50 overs, CCC managed to scrape across the finish line, scoring 271-8. It was a heart-pounding finish as Jediah Blades struck a crucial boundary off Shamar Springer, securing the hard-fought win off the final delivery of the match.
The hero of the day, Shane Dowrich, named Player of the Match, remained unbeaten on a remarkable 102, guiding his team through the nail-biting contest. The opener, Kadeem Alleyne, also played a significant role with a valuable contribution of 68, and his partner Johan Jeremiah added 30 to set the stage for CCC's innings.
Despite the promising start, Daryl Cyrus posed a serious threat by taking 4-54, putting CCC's chances of victory in jeopardy. However, Dowrich displayed exceptional composure, scoring 102 off 101 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and three sixes. Jordan Johnson chipped in with 34 runs from 33 balls, providing crucial support.
As the game approached its climax, it was left to Dowrich to carry his team to the brink of victory, and he did not do it alone.
With just nine runs needed from the final over, Romario Greaves played a significant role, smashing a vital six off the third ball. However, he was unfortunately run out for 14, leaving one ball and Dowrich at the other end.
In a thrilling conclusion, Jediah Blades emerged as the hero, striking a boundary off the first ball he faced, sealing the victory for CCC.
Larry Edward, on the Windward Islands side, picked up two wickets for 65 runs.
Earlier, the Windward Islands managed to post a competitive total of 267-8, thanks to impressive half-centuries from Alick Athanaze (65), Jeremy Solozano (55), and Sunil Ambris (51). Andre Fletcher also contributed with 32 runs. Blades, Isai Thorne, and Abhijai Mansingh were among the key wicket-takers for CCC with two wickets each.