Bailey’s Bay and Cleveland County will share the Knockout Cup trophy after both teams refused to take part in a coin toss to decide the winners.

The two sides will be presented with a trophy, medals and equal prize money of $1,000 each in a presentation at the National Sports Centre tomorrow.

In a communication to both clubs, which has been seen by The Royal Gazette, the Bermuda Cricket Board praised both clubs for their exemplary behaviour.

“The BCB has decided to award both teams equal winner’s money, $1,000, and medals and trophies,’’ read the statement.

“This act is a symbol of the role sports can play to reduce conflict when we are willing to bring all parties to resolve any possible conflict. The players are Bermuda’s role models and their goodwill is a true statement of the spirit of play in cricket.”

“With so much antisocial behaviour and disagreements across the political spectrum, the joint initiative by BBCC and CCCC to share the match result is to be applauded.

“When two of our elite teams can recognise the value of good sportsmanship, it shows that sports can bring people together. The players, match officials, spectators, host club, and the BCB cricket committee all played their role.

“With the match not having been played in full, the fair play, spirit in both teams and the good intent of all involved, the BCB will award joint winners cups to both clubs.”

Bay president Stephen Outerbridge is happy with how the matter has been handled by the BCB.

“I am happy and it's a fair result,’’ Outerbridge said.

“If we went to a coin toss, I wouldn't have been happy to win or lose, so this is the best result possible.”

Najee Musson, Cleveland president, also agreed with the decision.

“I don't have any issue with that and I agree with splitting it,’’ Musson said.

“I didn't think it was going to be fair for the match to be decided that way, especially after it was started. Maybe if we had not played, l still would have preferred it played on a reserve day. I would be happy if we meet Bailey’s Bay in the Eastern Counties final, so we can settle it then.”