The stage is set for an exciting day of cricket as the 2026 Runako Morton/TDC Primary Schools Cricket Championship enters the semi-final stage today, Thursday, July 9, at the ET Willet Park.
The final preliminary round concluded on Tuesday, July 7, with Charlestown Primary School (CPS) producing a commanding performance to defeat St. James’ Primary School by 130 runs.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Charlestown got off to a flying start through openers Delijah Jones and Newton, who combined to put on 100 runs before Newton retired on 33.
The introduction of star batsman Zakeem Bailey took the innings to another level. Nicknamed the local “Baby Boss,” Bailey unleashed an explosive unbeaten 64 from just 19 deliveries, helping Charlestown post a tournament-record 190 without loss from their 15 overs.
Bailey’s innings could have ended before it began, however, when he offered a return catch off the first ball he faced. The chance was put down by Ariella Phillip, allowing the talented youngster to capitalise with a breathtaking knock.
Charlestown’s top scorers were:
Zakeem Bailey – 64* (19 balls)
Delijah Jones – 60*
Newton – 33 (retired)
In reply, St. James’ Primary School struggled against disciplined bowling and finished on 60 for 5 from their allotted 15 overs. Bryant top-scored with an unbeaten 20, while 26 extras contributed significantly to the total.
Charlestown secured a comprehensive 130-run victory, maintaining its unbeaten record in the competition.
Final Preliminary Round Standings
CPS 7 matches -7 wins 14 points
JLPS 7 matches 5 wins 2 losses 10 points
EPPS 6 matches 5 wins 1 loss 10 points
IWPS 6 matches 3 wins 3 losses 6 points
MCPS 7 matches 3 wins 4 losses 6 points
VOJN 7 matches 2 wins 5 losses 4 points
STPS 6 matches 1 win 5 losses 2 points
SJPS 6 matches 0 wins 6 losses 0 points
With the preliminary rounds complete, attention now turns to the eagerly anticipated semi-finals at ET Willet Park.
The opening match gets underway at 1:15 p.m., with unbeaten Charlestown Primary School taking on defending champions Ivor Walters Primary School.
The second semi-final, scheduled for 3:30 p.m., will feature Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School against Joycelyn Liburd Primary School.
Both fixtures promise to deliver exciting cricket as the four remaining teams battle for a place in the championship final. Members of the public are encouraged to come out and support the Federation’s young cricketers as they continue their quest for the 2026 Runako Morton/TDC Primary Schools Cricket Championship title.