Batting collapse sees Eagles fall behind

Veerasammy Permaul
Veerasammy Permaul

Despite taking just two overs to remove the Windward Islands Volcanoes’ remaining two wickets, by close of play on day two of the West Indies four-day championship, they were batting once again as Guyana Harpy Eagles suffered a batting collapse.

Resuming on 292 for eight following Alick Athanaze’s 141, Volcanoes could only add two runs to their total before veteran left-arm spinner, Veerasammy Permaul snatched the final two wickets to end with 4-70 and bowl out the hosts at St. George’s Grenada in 80.5 overs.

Eagles, who are currently leading the table, were routed for 169 in 63.1 overs before Volcanoes closed on 48 for two after 17 overs, establishing a lead of 173 runs.

Permaul stood tall for Eagles after they were reeling at 14-3 to bring up his fourth first-class half century. The vice-captain stroked two fours and two sixes during his 92-ball resistance on his way to 53 before being caught and bowled by Kenneth Dember.

The right hander added 61 for the seventh wicket with Kevin Sinclair who made 23 from 55 balls. He struck two boundaries on the way. Anthony Bramble made 21 while Kemol Savory made 20 and Ronsford Beaton was left stranded on 10 from 42 balls but no other batsman managed double figures.

Seamer, Justin Greaves was the pick of the bowlers, taking 5-24 while Ryan John bagged 2-52.

When Volcanoes batted a second time, Beaton removed Jerlani Robinson, who opened the batting in place of Kimani Melius who suffered an injury, for three in the fourth over while Nial Smith accounted for Athanaze for 11 in the seventh over. Sunil Ambris saw his side off after reaching 18 not out from 30 balls. He is at the crease with Kavem Hodge who is on 13 not out from 42 balls. The match resumes at 10 hours today for the penultimate day.