In a groundbreaking moment for one-day international (ODI) cricket, the West Indies achieved a historic milestone by bowling a full 50 overs of spin in their second ODI against Bangladesh on Tuesday. This unprecedented strategy, combined with a thrilling super over, secured a narrow victory for the visitors, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The match, held in Mirpur, saw a total of 92 overs of spin, setting a new record for the highest number of spin overs in an ODI, surpassing the previous record of 78 overs. The West Indies’ decision to field five spinners—Gudakesh Motie, Alick Athanaze, Akeal Hosein, Roston Chase, and Khary Pierre—paid off as they restricted Bangladesh to 213 for seven wickets. The West Indies mirrored this total, finishing at 213-9, before clinching the win with 10 runs in the super over. This marked the first time in ODI history that a team bowled exclusively with spin for the entire innings, eclipsing Sri Lanka’s 1996 record of 44 overs of slow bowling. The tactic was particularly striking for a team historically renowned for its fast-bowling prowess. Bangladesh, opting to bat first, relied heavily on their spinners, with Mustafizur Rahman being the only pace bowler used. The match’s outcome underscores the evolving dynamics of cricket strategies and the West Indies’ adaptability in modern-day cricket.
分类： sports
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Experts necessary
The West Indies cricket team’s ongoing struggles have once again come under scrutiny following their lackluster performance in the first One-Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh. Despite Brandon King’s top score of 44 runs, the team’s overall display was marred by a lack of fighting spirit and preparation, raising questions about their ability to compete at the international level. Critics have pointed fingers at the team’s leadership, including coach Daren Sammy and captain Shai Hope, for their failure to inspire confidence and deliver results. Sammy’s recent comments, emphasizing the need to play ‘exceptionally well’ to beat Bangladesh, have been met with disbelief, as such a mindset is seen as undermining the team’s potential. The West Indies’ recent loss to Nepal in a three-match series further highlights their decline, with many attributing the team’s poor form to inadequate leadership and a lack of strategic vision. Calls for the inclusion of cricket experts in the team’s management have grown louder, as fans and analysts alike demand accountability from the current administration, including director of cricket Miles Bascombe and president Kishore Shallow. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul to restore the West Indies’ once-proud cricketing legacy.
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Haaland scores again as Man City beat Villarreal
In a dominant display, Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory against Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the league phase. The match, held at Estadio de la Ceramica, saw Erling Haaland and Bernardo Silva score crucial first-half goals, solidifying City’s control over the game. Haaland, the Norwegian sensation, extended his remarkable goal-scoring run to 12 consecutive matches across club and international fixtures, amassing an impressive tally of 22 goals during this period. Manager Pep Guardiola made strategic changes to the starting lineup, resting Phil Foden among others, as City ended a year-long drought of away wins in European competitions. Rico Lewis, City’s young talent, praised Haaland’s relentless drive and work ethic, emphasizing the team’s ambition to win the tournament. Despite Villarreal’s attempts to regain momentum, City’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making key saves in the latter stages. The only setback for City was an injury to midfielder Nico Gonzalez, adding to their midfield concerns with Rodri Hernandez already sidelined. Overall, City’s performance showcased their depth and determination as they continue their pursuit of Champions League glory.
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WATCH: 68 boats sail off for 41st Port Antonio Canoe Tournament
PORTLAND, Jamaica — The 41st edition of the Port Antonio Canoe Tournament commenced on Tuesday morning at the Ole Marina in Portland, albeit with a delayed start due to unfavorable weather conditions. Despite the challenges, the event drew significant participation, with 68 boats registered, including a strong contingent from St Mary. Daney-Ann Thomas, President of the Portland Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism about the tournament’s outcome, acknowledging the resilience of the participants. ‘The weather may impact the results, but these canoe fishermen are professionals who eagerly anticipate this annual event. It’s our way of honoring their decades-long dedication to their craft. I’m excited to see what they bring in,’ she remarked. The fishing competition is set to conclude at 4:00 pm, followed by an awards ceremony. Yamaha serves as the primary sponsor for the event. Additionally, the 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament and the Sir Henry Morgan Anglers Tournament are scheduled to begin on Thursday, further enriching the week’s maritime sports activities.
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Portmore rally to beat Harbour View in JPL
Portmore United secured a commanding 4-1 comeback victory against Harbour View in their Jamaica Premier League clash at Waterhouse on Monday, propelling them to sole possession of second place in the league standings. The win elevated Portmore to 18 points, just four points behind league leaders Montego Bay United. Harbour View initially took the lead in the 27th minute through Trayvone Reid’s third goal of the season, but Portmore equalized eight minutes later. Marques Reid’s 62nd-minute strike put Portmore ahead, and late goals from substitutes Ramone Howell (88th minute) and Orlando Russell (90th minute) sealed the emphatic win. In the second game of the doubleheader, Tivoli Gardens, despite being reduced to 10 men, edged Arnett Gardens 2-1 to break into the top six for the first time this season. Denville Watson opened the scoring for Tivoli in first-half stoppage time, but Shai Smith equalized for Arnett in the 53rd minute. After Anthony Nelson’s 71st-minute red card, Kimarley Smith’s stunning long-range effort in second-half stoppage time secured the victory for Tivoli, ending their three-game winless streak and marking their first back-to-back wins of the season.
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Dembele scores on return as PSG hammer Leverkusen 7-2
In a stunning display of attacking prowess, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) demolished Bayer Leverkusen 7-2 in the Champions League on Tuesday, despite both teams finishing the match with 10 men. The defending champions showcased their depth and resilience, with Ousmane Dembele marking his return from injury with a goal just three minutes after coming on as a substitute. The French forward had been sidelined since early September due to a hamstring injury. PSG’s Desire Doue netted a brace, while Willian Pacho, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha also found the back of the net at Leverkusen’s BayArena. PSG coach Luis Enrique emphasized the team’s ambition, stating, ‘We are a team that always wants to win everything. This season, we want to win everything again.’ Leverkusen’s Aleix Garcia scored both of the hosts’ goals, but their efforts were overshadowed by defensive lapses and disciplinary issues. Captain Robert Andrich was sent off for an elbow to Doue’s jaw, while PSG’s Illia Zabarnyi received a red card for conceding a second penalty. Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand acknowledged the gulf in quality, admitting, ‘We met the best team in the world right now.’ Despite PSG’s injury struggles and inconsistent form this season, they demonstrated their championship pedigree, overwhelming Leverkusen with a relentless attacking display. The match highlighted PSG’s determination to defend their European crown, even as they face tougher challenges ahead.
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Remembering ‘Jimz’
The untimely deaths of young athletes are always a profound tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on their families, friends, and communities. The recent passing of Ajani ‘Jimz’ Hippolyte, who drowned in a boating accident at Marisule Beach in early October, has sent shockwaves through Saint Lucia. Hippolyte, a former youth football international, was the second local player to die this year, following Sherman Augustin, who was fatally stabbed during Carnival celebrations in July. These losses are a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially for those with such promising futures. Hippolyte’s death brings to mind other young athletes like Bradley Felix, Nick Elibox, and Dhanraj ‘Chaz’ Cepal, who tragically lost their lives in car accidents between 2018 and 2019. Felix, a national footballer and track athlete, Elibox, a cricket scholar, and Cepal, a talented batsman, were all vibrant personalities whose potential was cut short. Hippolyte’s journey in football began at a young age, excelling in various schools and clubs, and culminating in his pivotal role with La Clery, where he helped secure multiple titles. Known for his versatility and infectious personality, Hippolyte was on the verge of his senior national debut. His death is a devastating blow to his community, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. The loss of these young talents underscores the need for a safer environment for aspiring athletes, ensuring their dreams are not extinguished prematurely. Their memories, however, will continue to inspire those who knew them.
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Elva on target in Cavalry season finale
In a gripping conclusion to the Canada Premier League (CPL) season on October 18, Saint Lucian forward Caniggia Elva delivered a standout performance for Cavalry FC, helping the defending champions secure third place despite their lowest points tally in the league’s six-year history. Elva, named Player of the Match, played a pivotal role in a 2-2 draw against bottom-ranked Vancouver FC at Willoughby Community Park. The match saw Halifax Wanderers and York United both falter in their final games earlier that day. The encounter came alive in the final third, with Vancouver’s Tyler Crawford receiving a red card in the 60th minute. Niko Myroniuk put Cavalry ahead in the 78th minute, but Vancouver equalized shortly after. A well-crafted move in stoppage time saw Elva score his fourth goal of the season, only for Vancouver to level again through a penalty by David Norman Jr. Elva’s contributions, including three shots, five chances created, and two successful dribbles, earned him top honors. Reflecting on the result, Elva emphasized the importance of securing third place and the upcoming playoff clash at Spruce Meadows’ ATCO Field. Cavalry, as the third seed, will face either Halifax or York in the quarterfinals. Forge FC claimed the regular-season title, but Cavalry remains determined to defend their playoff crown, aiming to become the first team to achieve the double. Despite a challenging season with just 42 points, Elva expressed confidence in their playoff potential, stating, ‘We’re a completely different team in the playoffs.’
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Lara commends West Indies’ resilience despite series loss
Despite another series loss, this time to India, the West Indies men’s cricket team demonstrated a commendable fighting spirit that earned praise from legendary cricketer Brian Lara. The second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi concluded with a sweep for India, but not before the West Indies showcased moments of grit and determination, particularly in their final innings. Lara, previously critical of the team’s perceived lack of commitment, acknowledged their resilience and called for greater involvement of cricket legends in the team’s development. The series began with a crushing innings defeat in the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, leaving little optimism for the Windies. However, the second Test revealed promising signs, including a maiden century by opener John Campbell, who became the first West Indies opener in over two decades to score a Test hundred on Indian soil. Campbell’s 115-run innings, alongside Shai Hope’s century, highlighted the team’s potential. The lower order also showed notable resistance, with contributions from Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales, and Anderson Philip. Fans on social media lauded the team’s improved performance and fighting spirit. Lara, who traveled to India with Sir Vivian Richards and Sir Richie Richardson to seek sponsorship for regional cricket development, emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance for the players. He suggested that Cricket West Indies should integrate legends into the team’s environment to inspire and support the players. Team captain Roston Chase expressed hope that the series would serve as a stepping stone for future Test matches. While the West Indies continue their journey to reclaim their former glory, the second Test offered a glimmer of hope for their fans.
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Olympian ‘Zeph’ Joseph launches game-changing cross country event
For over three decades, Zepherinus Knockay Joseph, a native of Mon Repos, Saint Lucia, has been a stalwart in the world of distance running. Now, at 50, Joseph is set to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious athletic career, this time as a pioneer in youth sports development. The recent announcement of the Zepherinus Joseph Cross-Country Invitational marks a significant milestone in his journey, aiming to inspire the next generation of athletes in Saint Lucia.