The Phillip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort will host the final of the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) Under-13 tournament, which is backed by the Laborie Credit Union. Either Babonneau or Soufrière will hold the inaugural trophy aloft this Saturday, December 6. The much-anticipated match will bowl off at 2 p.m.
Amid overcast skies and strong winds, Babonneau won the first semifinal last weekend, defeating Desruisseaux at the Soufrière Stadium. Jovonnie Dorville called correctly at the toss and inserted Desruisseaux, who were held to 69-7 from their 15 overs. Liam Anderson was the standout performer for Desruisseaux, top scoring with 22 runs. Babonneau’s Jahim Mathurin and Jovonnie Dorville each claimed two wickets, whilst Michael Jones, JVincy Cadasse and Kerlani Joseph also delivered tight spells.
In response, Babonneau chased down the target comfortably, finishing on 71-2. Anchorman Kerlani Williams fell cheaply, but vice-captain Vincy Cadasse shrugged off a couple of recent substandard performances, posting an unbeaten half-century and securing Babonneau’s place in the final.
In the second match of the day, the home team Soufrière faced Dennery. Batting first, Dennery struggled against a disciplined Soufrière bowling attack and were bowled out for just 36 runs. Kaiden Charlery was the star with the ball, taking 3-7 and keeping Dennery’s batters at bay.
Soufrière’s run chase was not without its challenges, as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Kaiden Charlery, who hit 62 in the quarterfinals against Castries South East, was held in check. However, the team managed to surpass Dennery’s score in the eighth over, with seven wickets down. Eric Flavien contributed significantly with the ball, taking 4-13 runs.
Both Babonneau and Soufrière have showcased impressive talent and determination throughout the tournament. Babonneau’s batting depth and consistent bowling have been key factors in their success, while Soufrière’s ability to perform under pressure, especially at home, has set them apart as formidable contenders.
The stage is set for an exciting finale between two talented teams, as this first-time development tournament comes to a head. Cricket fans are encouraged to attend and support the young players as they compete for the championship title.
Overall, the tournament has more than met its goals, serving as a tool to develop young players and reviving the sport in corners of the nation where it previously lay dormant. Grassroots programmes islandwide have truly been given a shot in the arm, thanks to the vision of SLNCA president Wayne Auguste and the support of Laborie Credit Union.
“Well, it’s always important to support youth and especially at that age,” said Choiseul coach and umpire Johann Williams. “We haven’t had cricket at that level, I think, since maybe when I was a little boy, maybe even like ten or so.
“Generally, the progression from the kids has been, you could see a little progression, and you could see they continue to do well in certain aspects. Of course, in certain places, there’s room for improvement, but it’s a learning process, and they continue to take little strides which will only augur well for cricket in Saint Lucia.
“I’d like to say a big thanks to Laborie for coming out and supporting that movement because coming on board, they are only doing justice to themselves as a corporation and to the kids, for the youth of Saint Lucia.”
Although the Laborie team did not advance past the first knockout round, they played unbeaten in the preliminaries, a welcome spark for the community, which earlier this year produced Saint Lucia’s first CARIFTA sprint champion, double gold medallist Jady Emmanuel.
“Over the years, we’ve not had much cricket in Laborie, especially when it comes to the under-13s,” explained Makeva Anthony. “So when the credit union came on board, supporting this initiative, we took the idea, and we ran with it. And I think, honestly, that we have been doing a disservice to our children. Because if you can see the results of the games, you can see that the interest is alive in Laborie.”
Anthony said that just knowing a neighbourhood financial institution is behind the tournament is a big plus for her and her school. The competition has provided an outlet for the kids who are enrolled in the after-school grassroots programme.
But she noted as well that watching the children enjoying their cricket has been an inspiration and motivation to the coaches, as they seek to get the most out of the talented young people in the area.
Final Match Details
- Teams: Babonneau vs Soufrière
- Date: Saturday, December 6
- Time: 2 p.m.
- Venue: Phillip Marcellin Grounds, Vieux Fort
