POINTE-A-PIERRE, (CMC):

Ryan Hinds struck a fine century, but Trinidad and Tobago grabbed a useful first innings lead over Barbados on the second day of the Carib Beer Challenge final at Guaracara Park yesterday.

The left-handed Hinds revived a faltering Barbados effort with a magnificent even hundred that helped them rally to 229, giving Trinidad and Tobago a first innings advantage of 75.

Batting a second time, Trinidad and Tobago reached six for one when bad light halted play at 5:44 p.m. with 8.3 overs remaining. Barbados' final total represented a significant recovery that was orchestrated by Hinds after they were reeling on 96 for six.

Batting at number six Hinds played soundly in the early stages before blossoming with a few authentic strokes to hit 10 fours and a six off 206 balls in five and three-quarter hours at the crease.Hinds was indebted to last man Corey Collymore in getting to his sixth first-class century. The Barbados captain was on 69 when his partner joined him and the pair proceeded to add 43 valuable runs for the tenth wicket.

Hinds was eventually bowled by fast medium Rayad Emrit just after 5:00 p.m., and his contribution ensured that Barbados reduced the deficit.

SCOREBOARD

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO 1st Innings 304 (Daren Ganga 120 not out; Pedro Collins 4-46)

BARBADOS 1st Innings

(overnight 36-2)

D. Richards lbw b Kelly