Thomas’ Primary School Defeats Maude Cross Preparatory in Cricket Match

The Runako Morton/TDC Primary Schools’ Cricket tournament witnessed a compelling shift in momentum on Friday, June 27th, 2025, as St. Thomas’ Primary School (STPS) decisively ended Maude Cross Preparatory School’s (MCPS) winning streak. The match, held at the Ramsbury grounds, saw MCPS struggle to establish a commanding total, posting a mere 43 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their allotted 12 overs. Lynarie Smithen top-scored for MCPS with 15 runs, while Rawlins, Partab, and Browne each claimed a wicket for STPS. In response, STPS, spearheaded by captain Dequanne Phillip’s unbeaten 28 runs, chased down the target with remarkable ease, reaching 45 runs for the loss of only 2 wickets in just 6.1 overs. Smithen managed to secure two wickets for MCPS, but her efforts were ultimately insufficient to prevent STPS from securing a convincing 8-wicket victory. This win marked a significant turning point in the tournament, highlighting STPS’s emerging strength and potentially signaling a shift in the balance of power.

The same day witnessed a series of other exciting encounters, further adding to the drama and excitement of the tournament. In the first of these matches, Iona Whyte Primary School (IWPS) clashed with Estridge Primary School (EPPS). EPPS, batting first, managed a modest total of 46 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their allocated overs. Aeden Brandy emerged as the top scorer for EPPS with 15 runs. Persaud, K. Herbert, T. Herbert, and Liburd each contributed with a wicket for IWPS, displaying a balanced bowling attack. IWPS, in their chase, showcased exceptional batting prowess, reaching the target of 48 runs without losing a single wicket. Persaud and K. Herbert remained unbeaten on 18 and 16 runs respectively, leading their team to a resounding 10-wicket victory. This dominant performance underscored IWPS’s formidable batting lineup and their ability to chase down targets with clinical efficiency.

The third match of the day featured a thrilling contest between John A. Gumbs Primary School (JLPS) and Violet O. Jeffers-Nicholls Primary School (VOJN). JLPS, batting first, posted a competitive total of 95 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Kenroy Fraser anchored the innings with a stellar unbeaten knock of 32 runs. Jarian Maynard was the pick of the bowlers for VOJN, claiming 2 wickets for 15 runs. In their chase, VOJN struggled to keep pace with the required run rate, eventually managing only 64 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. Tevyon Hendrickson top-scored for VOJN with 18 runs, while Otto and Douglas each picked up 2 wickets for JLPS. JLPS ultimately secured a comfortable 31-run victory, demonstrating their ability to both set and defend targets effectively.

These matches collectively showcased the competitive spirit and the emerging talent within the Runako Morton/TDC Primary Schools’ Cricket tournament. St. Thomas’ Primary School’s victory over the previously dominant Maude Cross Preparatory School injected a fresh wave of excitement into the competition, raising questions about which team would ultimately emerge as the tournament champions. Iona Whyte Primary School’s dominant 10-wicket victory further solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with, while John A. Gumbs Primary School’s comfortable win underlined their all-round capabilities. The tournament continued to provide a platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills and passion for the game, promising further exhilarating clashes as the competition progressed.

The performances of individual players also merit recognition. Dequanne Phillip’s captain’s knock for St. Thomas’ Primary School was instrumental in their victory over Maude Cross Preparatory School, demonstrating his leadership qualities and batting prowess. Lynarie Smithen, despite ending up on the losing side, showcased her all-round abilities with both bat and ball. The unbeaten partnership between Persaud and K. Herbert in Iona Whyte Primary School’s chase was a testament to their batting composure and ability to build partnerships. Kenroy Fraser’s crucial contribution for John A. Gumbs Primary School further highlighted the importance of individual brilliance in contributing to team success.

The Runako Morton/TDC Primary Schools’ Cricket tournament promises to be a closely fought competition with several teams displaying the potential to go all the way. The early stages of the tournament have already provided thrilling matches and impressive individual performances, generating significant excitement and anticipation for the matches to come. As the tournament unfolds, the young cricketers will undoubtedly continue to hone their skills and contribute to the growing popularity of the sport within the primary school system. The tournament serves as a valuable platform for nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the game of cricket, ensuring a bright future for the sport in the region.