Leicester went crazy on Sunday at CricketRama as St Vincent and the Grenadines beat Barbados Cricket in a thrilling climax.
In a match that ebbed and flowed, SVG lost an early wicket before Gidron Pope punished the wayward Barbadian bowling attack and made a well-deserved century with M. Hacksaw making 56, ending their innings on 208 for 1. Barbados, in reply, also lost early wickets, but opener Alcindo Holder’s well-deserved 43 and Catlin’s 56 N-O turned the game around. With 21 runs required from the last over, a sudden hush fell over the ground. The sound system went quiet; spectators turned their attention to the cricket match, and murmured voices became loud cheers as the game climaxed. The tension was palpable as the abuse from both camps echoed above the din, and an upset seemed likely.
Five runs from the last ball were required, and a dot ball ensued, leaving the SVG team winners. Then the bacchanal started as jubilant supporters ran to the ground to congratulate their team.
Established three years ago in High Wycombe in Berkshire, the match symbolises the close collaboration between the two countries and a means to raise funds for designated charities.
The decision to move the game to Leicester, prompted by logistical difficulties at the chosen local club, added a unique twist to the event. Despite the smaller turnout compared to recent years, those who attended were treated to the usual mix of food, arts and craft stalls, and products and books from the Caribbean, and the day concluded with the presentation of trophies, formal speeches, and lively performances from Singer Wheezy and Terrah Dan, followed by a wuk up session by Freeze, Kori, and Coolbreeze.