Enterprising young batting all-rounder Fabian Allen is expressing hope that he will be able to garner his second century of the season when play resumes today in the Cricket West Indies/Digicel Four-day Championship clash between Jamaica Scorpions and the Windward Islands Volcanoes at Sabina Park.
Allen, who has scored the most runs for Jamaica this season, despite playing only three of five matches due to injury, is presently 57 not out, however, with the Scorpions 261 for eight a lot will be expected if his to reach the landmark.
Jamaica captain Nikita Miller with whom he has put on 52 for the ninth wicket is the other not out batsman on 29.
"I am hopeful that I can double my score, if possible, as it would mean a lot to me getting another century,'' said Allen, who scored 169 not out against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in Trinidad in the second round.
"The pitch is playing well, and how I want it to, and this has given me the confidence to push on. I just hope I can get the support.''
The 22-year-old, a former West Indies Under-19 representative, who also bowls left-arm orthodox spin, and is playing in his seventh first-class match, entered proceedings with Jamaica limping at 149 for four in response of 200 made by the Windwards on day one.
However, supported initially by Brandon King, who made 35, and later by Miller, he was able to reel off an array of shots, including a number of elegant dabs, cover drives and cuts, much to the ire of the Windwards, who at stages had the Scorpions at 184 for five and 209 for nine.
Off-spinner Shane Shillingford, in showing guile and variations, was the main protagonist for the Andre Coley-coached Windwards with five for 72.
Openers John Campbell and Trevon Griffith, who resumed on 37 and five, respectively, after Jamaica had closed day one on 43 without loss, were the other Scorpions batsmen to make useful contributions.
"I am happy I was the one who was able to go out there and steady the ship somewhat, as a few batsmen got starts, but unfortunately did not carry on,'' said Allen, whose unbeaten knock represents his second fifty of the season to go along with his century.
"But the captain came out and supported me, and we were able to take the innings to the close.We now look forward to coming back in the morning and getting a start, and then take it from there.''