This is the dilemma of the Blackhawks! The young guns from the countryside have played some really good cricket in the second round of matches.
Avier Christian has found form at the big stage and has been a key to the success of Blackhawks in this round of matches, picking up MOM in both encounters.
In their first match against Bethesda Golden Eagles, they did not have an easy meal. Setting Eagles 109 to win, Bethesda Captain Deran Benta belted a quick 51 from 24 balls who looked sure to take the game away.
However, in the final over needing 12 to win with Devon Thomas (40) seemingly back in some form, it appeared as if Eagles would have won but it was not to be so. That man again Christian removed Thomas with his second ball and won the game for his team by 8 runs.
In their second match against Spartans, they showed why they are the best team in the country with a strong performance as they posted 98 for 4 from their allotment with Avier Christian scoring 43 of those runs. Rising Sun not having their best batsman, Melvin Charles, went belly up in return with a mere 45 for 5. They were not ready for the aerial assault from the Blackhawks this round, despite beating them previously.
Two wins from two games mean that the Liberta team has not only won the most games but has a superior NRR which has been used to select the teams for the final round of matches.
We could be set for another evening filled with drama should Bethesda beat Spartans in a commanding performance. This will set up an interesting final game because losing to New Winthorpes will leave them at 8 points, which will take New Winthorpes to 8 points with Bethesda having the opportunity to join them at 8 points. If this happens, then two teams will feel hard done by the rule.
What Do Lions and Eagles Need To Win T10 Splash?
New Winthorpes played well versus Spartans even though many may say that they should not have won the game. Though they may be right too since the Spartans only had needed 5 runs from 4 balls. It was poor batsmanship that cost Spartans the game. But, plaudits must be given to Lions for holding their nerves to the end.
To beat Liberta, Lions will need to dismiss Avier Christian and frontrunner for MVP, Kofi James early and limit the flow of extras. If they can remove both, then they can run rampage of the Blackhawks nest as there are quite a few nursing chicks who have not shown their ability.
They will also need to bat very well. Bartlette Henry has batted brilliantly at the latter end of the tournament and if he gets support from the likes of Jamaul Fernandez, Jermaine Otto, Nino Henry, and Shavon Moore, they will be able to chase anything between 80 and 100 or set a target over 90.
In order for Golden Eagles to win, they will need to launch an unsuspecting aerial attack that the Spartans will not be able to change their strategy and tactics fast enough.
Another player that can also walk away with MVP is Deran Benta. The wicketkeeper-batsman who is rated as one of the best on the island has batted exceptionally well. He’s scored the most runs of this round thus far.
But, we must also mention National Under 19 Allrounder Essan Warner, whose batting has somewhat overtaken his bowling as the tournament winds down. He batted sensationally well with his captain Benta in their last match vs Lions.
The youngster got the license to play his shots and that he did. He showed the potential that everyone knows he has and credit to the team for moving him up the order. They chased down 91 in 7.1 overs which will play in their favor, come to another NRR situation.
For them to win the competition, they will need the Lions to make dinner of the Blackhawks which will be no easy feat. If possible, then Bethesda is likely to win the competition by NRR. Rising Sun is a good bowling unit but they will meet players who can change the game in a few balls.
Should Bethesda turn up this evening and play the game that they can play, there is a high possibility of them winning the tournament. They will need to bowl and bat very well. We will see how it goes from the stands. See you there!