Bryce continues impressive growth
Top-order batsman Andrae Bryce has credited playing in Trinidad and Tobago’s domestic Premiership One championship as one of the main reasons he was able to score a century on debut for St Thomas against St Catherine CA in the opening round of the two-day Jamaica Cricket Association Senior Cup.
Bryce, who has been playing in the twin-island republic for the past three seasons, made a topscore of 102 as St Thomas, batting first, posted 263 in their first innings. He also got support from Mark Campbell were 93.
St Catherine CA, in response, were then bowled out for 83 with national representatives, fast bowlers Gavan Brown and Keno Wallace claiming six for 28 and two for 27, respectively.
Asked to follow-on, 180 runs in arrears, the Nkrumah Bonner-led St Catherine CA were in dire straits at 23 for five when the match was called off.
“I must say thanks to God for giving me the health, strength and patience to score a century on my debut for St Thomas,’’ said Bryce, who in previous seasons represented Kingston CC and St Catherine CC.
“The contributing factor has been preseason preparations being in training on a daily basis, and the high standard of cricket that I have been playing in Trinidad and Tobago against bowlers like West Indies spinners Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree.
“I also didn’t stress myself about scoring quickly, which I can. I instead batted for time, assessed the bowlers and conditions, and applied myself,’’ he added.
Bryce, who has in the past been a Jamaica trials invitee, also expressed sadness that he may only be able to play one match for St Thomas. He left the country last week for the start of the three-day Premiership in Trinidad where he is down to represent Victoria United.
However, according to him, he is confident that St Thomas, who reached the final of the Senior Cup two seasons ago, will do well.