Front-line batsman Kirk Edwards is one run away from a century heading into today’s fourth and final day of the Jamaica Scorpions’ practice match at Kensington Park.
The Barbadian, set to lead the Scorpions’ batting line-up in their opening fixture against Barbados Pride next Friday in Barbados, closed on 99 not out.
His knock was also the centerpiece of Paul Palmer’s XI second-innings total of 250 for three after they were earlier in the day set a victory target of 283 on a wearing pitch by David Bernard’s XI.
Edwards, who is playing his second game since arriving here recently as one of two mandatory Jamaica overseas draft picks, also got good support from in-form teammates AndrÈ McCarthy and opener John Campbell.
McCarthy scored 81 while Campbell followed up his first-innings topscore of 51 with 55.
“I am pleased with the application that Edwards, McCarthy, and Campbell showed,” stated Jamaica coach Junior Bennett.
“Asked to chase 280-odd runs batting last definitely takes some application, and because of this approach, they have put their team in a good position to win.”
Earlier, Bernard’s XI, after resuming on 143 for eight, were bowled out for 194.
Damion Jacobs followed up his first-innings half-century with 28, while Shacaya Thomas followed up his 95 with 34.
Fast bowler Leighton Leslie, four for 52, and left-arm wrist spinner Dennis Bulli, three for 51, finished with most wickets.
Bernard’s posted 234 in their first innings to which Palmer’s XI replied with 145.