A splendid all-round performance by Shameer Fazal propelled Diamond to a seven-wicket victory over defending champions Tucber Park in the second national semi-final of the Republic Bank under-15 national semi-final at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda, yesterday.
Diamond won the toss and invited the defending champions to take first strike and though they started well they eventually collapsed from 95 for four to 108 all out.
Jadesh Bishun picked up 4-10 from seven overs, Pernell London grabbed 3-26 and Fazal supported with 2-10 as the Berbice side was dismissed in 41 overs.
Only Jamal LaFleur, who struck three fours to top-score with 40, presented a meaningful challenge to the East Bank bowling. Diamond had a mature approach to the run chase losing only three wickets in overhauling the inadequate total in 32.4 overs.
Fazal, together with Vickram Balkarran (11 n.o) put on an unbroken 59-run partnership to seal the victory.
Fazal hit the winning runs – a four through midwicket – which also brought up his half century. He struck four boundaries in scoring 51 off 64 balls.
LaFleur picked up two wickets for 20 runs from nine overs bowling for Tucber Park
Diamond will now play Albion in the final scheduled for February 17.
