Windward Islands Volcanoes seized complete control of their Round Three West Indies Championship fixture against Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners at Chedwin Park in Jamaica, propelled by well-played centuries from West Indies Test batsman Kavem Hodge and Sunil Ambris on Thursday.
Following a strong bowling display on the opening day, where leg spinner Darel Cyrus and seamer Gilon Tyson dismantled the Marooners for 204, Hodge and Ambris continued the Volcanoes’ dominance with a formidable 192-run fifth-wicket partnership on day two.
Hodge, exhibiting patience and precision, remained unbeaten on 130 at stumps, marking his fifth First Class century. His innings, adorned with 13 boundaries, anchored the Volcanoes’ innings. Meanwhile, Ambris showcased aggression in his innings, smashing 10 fours and four sixes on his way to registering his eighth First Class century, before being dismissed for 120 off 113 balls.
Marooners struggled to contain the Volcanoes’ batting onslaught
Despite the resistance from Romario Greaves, who claimed five wickets for 142 runs, the Marooners struggled to contain the Volcanoes’ batting onslaught. With Volcanoes reaching 358-8 at stumps, holding a commanding 154-run lead with two wickets in hand, the momentum firmly favored the Windward Islands team.
The rebuilding process initiated by Alick Athanaze (26) and Hodge after the early loss of wickets solidified the Volcanoes’ position. Even after the departure of Athanaze, Hodge and Ambris continued to dominate, effectively extinguishing any hopes of the Marooners making a comeback.
Despite a late flurry of wickets, the Volcanoes maintained their grip on the game, aiming to extend their lead further on the third day of play. With the stage set for an intriguing continuation, the Volcanoes remain well-positioned to secure a convincing victory over the Marooners in the West Indies Championship encounter.
