The 2016 national cricket programme got going last Sunday, with the staging of a Twenty/20 festival match at the Arnos Vale One Playing Field, to signal the formal opening.

In the end it was the National XI, with most of its regulars, along with two seasoned national female players in its line-up, who proved too much for the President’s XI, and took away the Lennox John challenge trophy.

Batting first, the National Xl rattled up 199 for 7 from their 20 overs. Casmond Walters thumped eight fours and four sixes in his knock of 68, while Desron Maloney chipped in with 32.

Bowling for the President’s I, Luke Browne collected 3 for 11.

The President’s Xl were tottering at 27 for 8, before an unbroken stand of 104, between Shaquille Browne – 53 not out and Ray Jordan – 47 not out saw their team to 131 without any further loss.

Browne slammed four fours and two sixes and Jordan measured six fours in his knock.

Female cricketer Stacey Ann Adams collected 3 for 3 and Javid Harry 2 for 8, as the national team romped to an uncomplicated 68-run win.

Speaking at the brief closing ceremony, president of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Kishore Shallow said that the festival match was part of his organization’s way of “revolutionizing” the sport.

Shallow is hopeful that the crowds will begin once again to follow local cricket competitions.

The National Lotteries Authority Neil Williams Twenty/20 competition begins this weekend at various venues. Team Rivals are the reigning champions.(RT)