Central Castries has decisively advanced to the championship match of the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) Premier League Two-Day tournament, securing a seven-wicket victory against Babonneau in the semifinal clash at Mindoo Phillip Park. The team’s triumph was orchestrated by an extraordinary bowling performance from Kymani Sexius, complemented by critical batting contributions throughout the lineup.
The match commenced with Central Castries winning the toss and electing to field—a decision that immediately paid dividends. Seamer Dillan John set the tone by dismissing opener Dane Edward for a duck on just his third delivery. This breakthrough initiated a spectacular collapse for Babonneau, primarily engineered by Sexius. The bowler’s devastating spell included taking four consecutive wickets, leaving the opposition reeling at a precarious 24-5 within the first innings. Shervon Joseph offered a brief counterattack with a 34-run knock, but Babonneau was ultimately bundled out for a meager 90 runs. Sexius finished with a remarkable first-innings figure of 6-20 from 8.5 overs.
In response, Central Castries established a commanding position built on a formidable 87-run partnership between Theo Edward and Jamaal James. Edward, fresh from national Under-23 duties, played a dominant innings of 66 from 58 balls, while James provided sturdy support with 55 runs. Their efforts guided Central to a declaration at 209-9, securing a substantial 119-run first-innings lead. Shervon Joseph emerged as the most successful bowler for Babonneau, claiming 4-41.
Facing a massive deficit, Babonneau displayed significantly improved resilience in their second innings. Shervon Joseph anchored the effort with a patient 70 from 164 deliveries, well-supported by Qwaine Henry’s 52. Their partnership helped post a more competitive total of 229, setting Central Castries a target of 111 for victory. Sexius again featured prominently with the ball, taking 3-65 to complete a match haul of nine wickets.
The run chase encountered early turbulence as Central Castries lost three quick wickets. However, composure prevailed through Vernilius Gabriel and Stephen Naitram, who guided their team to the target with an unbroken partnership. Gabriel sealed the victory in style, hammering an unbeaten 40 from just 32 balls, while Naitram contributed a fluent 31 not out.
Central Castries now prepares to challenge the defending champions, Gros Islet, in the tournament final scheduled for December 19-20 at the same venue, with the coveted title at stake.