Tough day for Ja's bowlers

Jamaica Franchise bowlers were made to work hard yesterday on the opening day of their WICB Professional League four-day final round clash against Barbados Pride at Sabina Park yesterday.

Winning the toss and electing to bat, Barbados closed the day on 286 for eight.

Former West Indies Under-19 captain, Sharmarh Brooks, led the way for the visitors with a boundary-filled even 100. The free-scoring Brooks hit nine fours and a six in three hours and 17 minutes at the crease.

It was the second ton for the 26-year-old, who has had a chequered first-class career since making his debut as an 18-year-old in 2007.

His maiden century came last week against the Windward Islands Volcanoes in Barbados in what was his first four-day fixture in two seasons.

"My innings was a lot quicker than I would normally do at this level," said Brooks, who after averaging in the low 20s after regional 20 matches went overseas to play professional cricket.

"The wicket was a good one to bat on, things were just flowing, and I got a chance early on when I was on one.

"But I always believe that when you get a chance you should make full use of your chances, and that's what I did."

Silky-smooth stroke maker, 21-year-old Shai Hope scored 59 while opener Omar Phillips made 33.

Twenty-year-old fast bowler, Marquino Mindley has so far claimed four for 36 with his new ball partner Jason Dawes supporting with two for 45.

"I thought Sharmarh batted well, but having said that, I don't believe we fielded as well as we could have," said Jamaica coach, Junior Bennett.

"But to come back and get those few wickets in the latter part kind of balanced things."