Garfield Sobers U-19 Cricket: Johnson spurs Sherwin Young Lion Academy to victory

Mickel Johnson produced a sensational all-round performance as Sherwin Young Cricket Academy of Guyana opened their Sir Garfield Sobers Under-19 International Cricket Tournament campaign with a commanding 96-run victory over Simmo School of Cricket Excellence of Barbados.

Johnson was the key figure in the match, making valuable runs before destroying the opposition batting line-up with a match-winning bowling spell.

Batting first, Sherwin Young Cricket Academy posted 164 all out, with Johnson anchoring the innings with a composed 43 off 53 balls, including four boundaries.

He was joined by the explosive Shazim Mohamed, who provided the innings’ major acceleration with a powerful 57 off 48 balls. Mohamed’s attacking knock featured five sixes and three fours, helping the Guyanese side reach a competitive total.

Simmo School of Cricket Excellence’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Nicholai Price-Best, Jaden Brathwaite, Ashere Hossanah and Nicholas Singh each claiming two wickets as they worked to restrict the Sherwin Young batting line-up.

In reply, Simmo School appeared well placed at 50 without loss before Johnson changed the complexion of the contest with a brilliant spell. The all-rounder claimed outstanding figures of 5-9 from four overs, triggering a dramatic collapse that saw the Barbadians slump to 68-9 when their innings was closed.

Adityn Khan provided excellent support with 2-3 as the Sherwin Young bowlers maintained relentless pressure and wrapped up a convincing victory.

The impressive opening-day performance sends an early signal of Sherwin Young Cricket Academy’s ambitions in the prestigious tournament, with Johnson emerging as the standout performer after dominating with bat and ball.