WI local:Empire punish the schoolboys

Empire 257 v Schools South

Like true champions, ICB Empire punished hapless CHIC Schools South yesterday.

But, the schoolboys could take some satisfaction after snatching eight wickets in the post-tea session and dismissing the Division 1 champions-in-waiting just before the close.

A third-wicket century stand between the in-form Nicky Bowen and Shawn Graham, which occupied an hour either side of tea, lifted the front-runners to 172 for two after they were sent in on a grassy pitch.

Both were removed in quick succession by the impressive fast bowler Corey Edwards, and then the last five wickets fell for 31 runs when the batsmen were merely throwing the bat around.

Bowen, who took 20 balls to score his first run, made 66 in three hours' batting that included three fours and six threes, the best of which was a spanking cover-drive.

His innings was ended when he was bowled by Edwards in an inspired spell after tea when he took three wickets in 10.2 successive overs.

Graham was particularly strong on the cut against the spinners before he fell for 51 to a rising delivery from Edwards which was gloved to first slip.

There were breezy contributions of 29 from 35 balls by Alcindor Holder, and 22 from 23 balls by Robin Parris before both went to leg-spinner Kenroy Williams, who finished with four for 35 off five overs.