Williams double-hundred in vain as Guyana advance to final

A truncated fourth day's play saw a Stuart Williams double century go in vain as Guyana marched into the final of the Busta Cup, where they will face Jamaica.

Williams, unbeaten on 176 at the start of the fourth day, must have known the likely fate of his team even as he took guard in the morning. Guyana had beaten Leeward Islands during regular season play, and unless Leewards could bring off a shock victory within the day, the hosts were firm favourites to occupy the finals berth.

As luck would have it, the local weather gods decided to turn out in support of their team as well, although it is debatable whether Guyana needed their intervention. Williams went to complete his double ton, helping Leewards add 112 runs in the 35.1 overs of play that was possible on the day.

Keithroy Tittle, unbeaten overnight on six, was bowled by Mahendra Nagamootoo for 10. Ridley Jacobs then made an unbeaten 27, lending good support to Williams. The Leeward Islands skipper made 252, the culmination of a fine run of form in the tournament.

He was still unbeaten when rain prevented any play from mid-afternoon onwards, leaving Leeward Islands stranded on 442 for five in their 133.1-over innings. Williams received the Man of the Match award for his gritty knock, but that will be little consolation as he watches Guyana compete Jamaica from April 4-7 at Sabina Park.