Leeward Islands declare on 24 for 7

Windward Islands 104 for 5 (Theophile 54*, Joseph 3-24) lead Leeward Islands 24 for 7 dec in 18.3 overs by 80 runs
Scorecard

In what appears to have been a strategic move, Leeward Islands declared their first innings on 24 for 7 in 18.3 overs before lunch on the first morning of their four-day match against Windward Islands in Roseau. The unusual decision, according to a report on westindiescricket.com, was seemingly made because of concerns over a deteriorating pitch at Windsor Park.

Having been asked to bat, Leeward Islands lost four wickets with the score on 3 and than another two when the total was on 11. Orlando Peters, who made 11 not out, was the only batsman to score more than 5. The captain Steve Liburd, who made a duck, declared the innings despite having three wickets in hand. Mervin Matthew, Kevin McLean and Kenroy Peters took two wickets each for Windward Islands, and there was one run-out.

Windward Islands were batting before the lunch interval and passed Leeward Islands' score without loss. However, Alzarri Joseph dismissed Devon Smith soon after and took two more quick wickets to reduce Windward Islands to 33 for 3. That became 36 for 4 when Gavin Tonge dismissed Sunil Ambris.

The innings was steadied by a 50-run stand between opener Tyrone Theophile, who ended the day unbeaten on 54, and wicketkeeper Andre Fletcher, who made 31 off 46 balls. Windward Islands were 104 for 5 at stumps.

Though only 43.3 overs were possible in the day, 12 wickets fell for only 128 runs.