BOWLERS took the spotlight in a low-scoring two-day trial match between Yannick Elliott’s XI and Donovan Nelson’s XI, which ended in a draw at Kensington Oval on Monday.

Batting first on what seemed to be a bowler friendly pitch, Yannick Elliott’s XI in their first innings were skittled out for a meagre 130 on Sunday’s first day. Damion Jacobs led the way with 36, supported by captain Elliott, who made 24 and Bryan Clarke with 23.

Left-arm medium pacer Gavan Brown hauled in 5-15 from 11.2 overs, backed by off-spinner Jamie Merchant and pacer Brian Buchanan, who took two wickets each.

In reply, Nelson’s XI fared worse, being bowled out for 104 after resuming from their overnight score of 84-6. Oshane Walters, 33, and Cassius Burton, 36, led the scoring. Jacobs, bowling leg spin, returned 5-24 from 14.5 overs, while off-spinner Elliott took two for 23. Fast bowler Nicholson Gordon also grabbed two wickets.

Elliott’s XI in their second innings could only manage 159 all out. Kirk Harris with the only half-century of the game top scored with 74, and Zeniffe Fowler got 23.

Merchant, three for 32, Oshane Walters, three for 11, and Buchanan, two for 45, led in the bowling department.

Donovan Nelson’s XI after a rain delay got to 127-4 when stumps were drawn. Derval Green made 40, Oshane Walters, 30, and Cassius Burton, 34 not out, held the batting order together. Christopher Lamont took two for 35.

The players will continue their preparation for the upcoming regional four-day tournament, set to get under way in February, with a practice match today, when captain Chris Gayle is expected to return to the pitch at Sabina Park.