Trio press claims for selection as Windwards tournament looms

PORTSMOUTH, Dominica, CMC – Former Windward Islands batsman, Kirsten Casimir, and all-rounders Martin Matthew and Kavem Hodge, sent a timely reminder to selectors with solid performances during the third and final trial match which ended in a tame draw at Benjamin’s Park on Sunday.

Casimir hit an unbeaten half-century while Matthew and Hodge produced fine bowling spells as Dominica continued its preparation for the upcoming senior Windward Island tournament scheduled to bowl off in St. Lucia next month.

Batting first, Shane Shillingford’s Xl posted 142 all out against Kevin James’ Xl with Tyron Theophille hitting the top score of 42 while Samuel Mitchel stroked 32 and Shillingford got 27.

Chris Alexander took two for 15 bowling for James’ Xl while Gary Prince and Kavem Hodge each claimed two for 36 runs.

James’ XI resuming the second and final day on 49 for one, were all out for 96 with Matthew proving too much for the batsmen. Following up on his two half centuries in the previous trial matches, Matthew took seven for 18 while Oscar George supported with two for 24.

Only Ezekiel Francis with 29 and Windward Island Under 15 player, Jerlani Robinson with 20, showed any resistance.

Batting a second time, Casimir hit an unbeaten 55 as Shillingford’s Xl reached 163 for nine at stumps. Samuel Mitchel weighed in with 46 and Joel Mingo chipped in with 24.

Hodge was the chief destroyer, taking four wickets for three runs with Ezra Green supporting with two for 37.

The selectors are expected to announce the Dominica team soon.