Congratulations to the Anguilla cricket team- three day champions

Information gleaned from the West Indies Cricket internet site (http://www.windiescricket.com) has stated Anguilla has emerged victorious in the three day Leeward Islands cricket championship for the first time in its cricketing history.  This is the antithesis of what occurred during the 1980’s and early 1990’s when Anguilla would have been defeated by most teams.  This year marks the genesis of a new era, in which the youthful side has the correct blend of confidence, experience and a very talented line up. 

Three day points standing (source http://www.windiescricket.com)

Anguilla                                   57 points

Antigua                                   42 points

ST. Kitts                                  30 points

Nevis                                      27 points

Montserrat                              21 points

Combined Virgin Islands           6 points

Therefore let us take a look at some of the key components that has guided the side to victory.

Captain Chaka Hodge, former Leeward Islands U15 and U19 Captain and senior Leeward Island senior team member who honed his skills over the past few years has lead Anguilla to success.  However this could not have resulted without team support.   Hodge’s sensible batting; calculated bowling and general cricketing knowledge were some of the key ingredients the marshaled Anguilla to victory. 

Returning to the team after a brief absence is the former Leeward Islands youth and senior team opening batsman and vice captain Alex Adams.  His presence has given the captain a bank of experience in which he can count on and his eloquent batting technique has left the crowd longing for more.   His jovial personality coupled with his fielding ability has been a much needed addition to the Anguilla team.
  

Terrance Adams, former Leeward Island youth and senior one day player has brought a wealth of cricketing knowledge to the team.  Like his brother Alex, Terry (Ta) a veteran of many cricket battles can be relied on for any segment of the game. However his ability as a medium pacer to move the ball in any direction and to take catches is renowned through out the Leeward Islands.
 

Omari Banks has been an asset to the team with the bat, ball and in the field.  The addition and perfection of the doorsa has left many of his adversaries scratching their heads longing for an antidote.  The former Leeward Island youth, present Leeward senior player and West Indies all rounder has been using the tournament as his proving ground to show the West Indies selectors that he deserves a spot in the regional team. 

Anguilla has always produced fast bowlers of the finest quality.  Memory recalls Mr. Oris and Eustace Proctor, Mr. Valentine Banks, Mr. Liston Adams, Mr. Oliver and Charlie Hodge, Mr. Ansel Hughes (Tucker) and Mr. Alkins Rogers spouting fire and fury to the batsmen.  Today there are several youngsters who are continuing the great tradition.  The three young pacers are Kelbert Walter, Delano Mussington and Daniel Proctor. 

Walters, the fastest of the three has turned heads in the Stanford 20/20 and in the Leeward Islands Youth Tournament.   His recent exploits in the aforementioned youth tournament has netted him a position in the West Indies youth practice squad.  He brought that mentality to the Anguilla team where he was able to take wickets on fast and slow pitches helping Anguilla to victory whenever necessary.  The 16year old flame thrower also proved he was no slouch with the bat.

Delano Mussington another flame thrower in the group has proven his worth time and time again.  This year he was injury free and showed a level of control and accuracy that many bowlers only dreamed of.  This coupled with ruthless aggression has caused morbid fear in many opposing batsmen.  Consequently his exploits has helped Anguilla capture her first three day title.

Daniel Proctor is a deceptively fast pacer who can also open the batting if necessary.  Proctor capable of reaching speeds of over 80 miles per hour has played the role of the bride’s maid to his much heralded counter parts of the fast bowling trident. Being a consummate team player Proctor has done everything and anything necessary for Anguilla to win.

Chesney Hughes another Leeward Islands Youth and West Indies youth trail squad member has been a wonderful sight to behold when batting.  The left hander batsmen spent the season dispatching all class of bowlers to all parts of the field.  His growing confidence and consistency has equaled runs for the Anguilla team. He has also chipped in with his left hand off spin to make him a more complete player.  All of which has lead to Anguilla’s victory.

Rondell Lake seems to grow in confidence with every game that is played.  Once encouraged by cricketing pundit Dale Rogers to continue playing, Rondell’s bowling and batting ability has played a pivotal role in setting up matches for Anguilla.  As a medium pacer Rondell has been swinging the ball in both directions creating much concern for opposing batsmen.
 

Jahmar Hamilton a diminutive wicket keeper is following in the footsteps of several exceptional players.  Mr. Kenneth and Wayne Proctor, Mr. Sam and Lyndon Webster, Mr. Rudolph Proctor and Mr. Leon Lake have all worn the gloves, making the position seem like one of virtual ease.  His improved keeping and batting abilities have been on display this year.  On several occasions when more runs were needed he stayed at the crease providing either the half century of century as needed. 

Montcin Hodge has been a pillar of consistency for the Anguilla team.  This former Leeward Islands youth player is extremely patience came to the forefront during the Antigua match when Anguilla’s back was to the wall.  His superb timing and plethora of shots seemed to have been refined from his recent stint in England.  Another exciting aspect of his game is his fielding. With cat like reflexes he pounces on any ball in his direction and is capable of getting direct strikes towards the wicket.

Lindell Richardson is a flashy young opening batsman who is not afraid of punishing bowler who strays.  His attacking style was ever so apparent during the Nevis, Anguilla one day match.  His recent stint in England seemed to have added some more strokes to his cadre of shots.

Shridath Rey a young left hand orthodox spinner is a former U15 Leeward Islands player, whose talent has improved tremendously.  The young Rey brings with him a wider array of talent and the unusual movement from deliveries from his natural action.  His batting should also be commended as he is not afraid of spending time in the middle to support other batsmen.

Matthew Jordan a former Leeward Island youth player has played second fiddle to wicket keeper Jahmar Hamilton this season.  However his ability behind the wickets should not be underestimated as he has proven to be ever reliable.  His batting ability is been legendary and is willing to play once called upon.

Nordell Lake is another Leeward Islands U15 and U19 player, whose ability with the ball and bat only speaks of glorious times for the future.  Though the youngster has not featured prominently in the side in due time his contributions will be known by all.

Yannik Leonard is a left hand orthodox spinner who is a promising talent who is all extremely enthusiastic about the game of cricket.  Like Chesney and Shridath who are left handed spin bowlers his angles will create havoc for batsmen. 

With the entire success one can easily forget the coaching staff that has groomed the talent over the years.

Mr. Cardigan Connor is a former Hampshire County professional and medium pacer.  His professional stint has allowed him to impart sound advice to his students of the game.  His business like approach to the game has players thinking differently about all aspects of the game.  His role as advisor seems to have come to maturation.

Mr. Reginald Carty is a former Anguilla national team bowler.  This cagey veteran, who has mastered the art of swing bowling, has been busy over the years imparting his knowledge to the young bowlers.  His keen eye has also been helpful; to the batsmen as they too have benefited from his sound advice.

Mr. Alkins Rogers has been the manager for the team this year.  His past cricketing experience as a national player has been vital in ensuring team success.    Once again congratulations to the Anguilla cricket team.