Nandu, Smith cool-off Volcanoes

Apr 20, 2026 Sports

…Harpy Eagles snatch first-day honors; trail by 21 runs

By Clifton Ross

Kaieteur Sports – A fiery five-wicket spell from speedster Nial Smith reinforced by a brisk half-century from Matthew Nandu, gave the Guyana Harpy Eagles a huge edge heading into today’s second day of action versus the Windward Volcanoes, as they trail by 21 runs with eight wickets in the tank.

Guyana Harpy Eagles pacer Nial Smith was sublime during his opening spell

The Volcanoes imploded during the first batting innings of their return battle against the Guyanese over at the Antigua Recreation Ground, where they were immediately blown away by the venom of the Harpy Eagles seamers, led by Smith who snared brilliant figures of 5-36 from 13 overs.

Returning fast-bowler Shamar Joseph worked for his 2-52 from 10 overs while Keemo Paul (2-46) continued to find his straps, as the three pacers cohesively ripped apart the opposition batting order.

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie (1-4) was the next best bowler, as the Volcanoes trio of top-scorers in; Ryan John (37), Noelle Leo (36) and Sunil Ambris (35) failed to capitalize on their starts.

The Volcanoes who at one point were 21-5, began their innings in a fluster after Smith and Paul rattled the top order to remove huge players in skipper Alick Athanaze (9), Kavem Hodge (4) and opener Ackeem Auguste (2) to give Guyana an amazing start.

Guyana, at stumps were comfortably placed on 130-2 after 41 overs with Vice-Captain Nandu giving the chase a nice shot of adrenaline after his late session knock of 54 off 65 (8×4 1×6), prior to his dismissal in the last session.

Opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul, unbeaten 29 and Kevlon Anderson (41) kept the ship afloat before the latter was unfortunately denied a possible half-century when he was dismissed.

Chanderpaul and captain Tevin Imlach, currently on four, will have huge roles today as the Eagles look to pile on runs and gain the 1st innings advantage in pursuit of their second successive win this season.

Leewards Hurricanes were bowled out for 131 batting but left Trinidad and Tobago Red Force reeling at 85-6 during the chase.

Jamaica Scorpions batting first racked up a 300 plus score as they sought to gain the lead in their match versus Barbados Pride, as part of Sunday’s second round.

Action resumes today.

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