Eleven Essequibo players could only manage a total of 15 runs as Berbice romped to a commanding 278-run win in the opening match of the Senior Female Inter-County match on Thursday at the Everest ground, Camp Road.
Chasing a huge target of 294 in 50 overs, Essequibo managed to bat an astonishing 6.1 overs, which is the equivalent of a mere 37 deliveries, losing nine wickets in the process. Charlene Fredericks was unable to bat due to an injury suffered while fielding.
West Indies pair Erva Giddings and Tremayne Smartt combined for eight wickets against an Essequibo batting line-up that was blown away like feathers on a windy day.
Giddings claimed 5-9, while Smartt bagged 3-6. By contrast, Berbice batted out the full 50 overs, posting 293-4. Player-of-the-match, Melanie Henry stroked an even 50, while Shabika Gajnabi (48) and Sheneta Grimmond (47) offered support.
The tournament will continue on Saturday with Demerara facing Essequibo at the same venue. The final round is billed for Sunday between Demerara and Berbice at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda.
