Campbell

Jermaine Lannaman, Star Writer

Melbourne captain Jon-Ross Campbell believes changing his bowlers at the right time was the main reason his team was able to record a seven-run win over Lucas, under the Duckworth and Lewis system, during their third round Jamaica Cricket Association 50-overs clash at Nelson Oval, at the weekend.

Melbourne, batting first, were bowled out for 171 off 38 overs with West Indies Under-19 spin all-rounder, Fabian Allen, making a top score of 50, and returning national batsman, Yannick Elliott, 44.

Off-spinner Patrick Dixon claimed four for 33.

Lucas, who in response were set 168 off 45 overs for victory, after the rains had intervened with them struggling at 74 for five off 24.2 overs, were then held to 161 for nine.

"The bowlers did well, stuck through, bowled tight, and applied pressure," said Campbell.

"I was not worried in the final overs, because though they were scoring well, we had a plan and rotated the bowlers how we wanted to."

Lucas in their pursuit of what would be an upset victory over the defending champions were led by Wayne Gayle, the brother of West Indies opener Chris Gayle.

Wayne hit 36 off 28 balls, which included of two sixes and three fours.

He also shared in a riveting 41-run ninth wicket stand with Gayle, who ended not out on 16.

Leg-spinner Damion Jacobs with three for 19, off 9 overs, led the way for the Kangaroos with in-form all-rounder Oneil Wright, two for 26, and leg-spinner Dwayne Thompson, two for 41, also getting among the wickets.

Earlier, the free-scoring Allen, hit eight fours, and shared in an important 72-run fourth wicket stand with Elliott, who recently returned from league cricket in England.