Guyana win Busta International Shield

Guyana won the Busta International Shield by virtue of having gained the first innings lead after they drew the final against Jamaica at Sabina Park on Sunday.

Jamaica, who needed to secure an outright win on the final day, expectedly failed in their mission. The hosts, who began the day on 102 for two, made 269 in their second innings before being dismissed. Their captain Robert Samuels led his team's quest for fast runs, scoring 61 off 51 balls with three fours and two sixes before being run-out. Ricardo Powell, who made 39, was the other major contributor on the day.

This left Guyana chasing 193 for an outright win in 50 overs. But the tourists, who only needed to play out the remainder of the day, plumbed for the easier option, making 99 for three in their second essay before stumps were drawn. Acting captain Shivnarine Chanderpaul, deputising for an injured Hooper, top-scored for Guyana with an unbeaten 30.

Hooper was deservedly named Man-of-the-Match for his 149 not out in the Guyanese first innings, a knock that secured his team the vital first innings lead and thereby paved the way for their Shield triumph.

Guyana were also rewarded with 10,000 dollars for their win. Jamaica had to remain content with a 7,000 dollars runners-up cheque.