Defending champions Barbados and Windward Islands recorded tense wins in two low-scoring affairs to kickstart the Cricket West Indies CG United T20 Blaze competition at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, on Tuesday.
Hosts Guyana, aiming for a maiden Regional Women’s title, suffered a massive collapse to lose to Barbados by seven runs, while in the opening match of the tournament, Windward Islands had to dig deep to beat Leeward Islands by four wickets.
The tournament continues later on Tuesday with the first night game between Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, starting at 19:00h.
Losing start for Guyana
Chasing a small target of 87, Guyana seemed on course for victory at 54-1 halfway through the 15th over, but panic stepped in and they were held to 79-9 to lose by seven runs.
Aaliyah Alleyne and Shakera Selman picked up three wickets each, as only Shemaine Campbelle with 33, Shabika Gajnabi 14 and Tremayne Smartt with 13 got into double figures for Guyana.
Barbados struggled as well after they opted to bat first, losing wickets at regular intervals. Cherry-Ann Fraser was impressive with 3-11, including a brilliant return catch, while Mandy Mangru picked up 2-13 and debutant Ashmini Munisar bowled well, taking 2-17.
West Indies player Hayley Matthews made a match-high 35, while Kyshona Knight scored 17.
Small target, tense chase
The first game of the competition produced less runs that the Guyana/Barbados clash.
Batting first, Leeward Islands could only muster 56-7 with Rosalie Dolabaille making 21 and Pearl Etienne picking up two wickets.
In reply, Windwards stumbled along the way, but achieved victory at 57-6 from 17.1 overs. Opener Kimone Homer made 11 and Japhina Joseph 10 not out.
Jenison Richards was the leading wicket-taker for Leewards, picking up 3-7, while Rozel Liburd had 2-9.
Second round games
Thursday June 9, National Stadium, Providence
10:00h- Guyana vs Trinidad and Tobago
14:30h- Leeward Islands vs Barbados
19:00h- Jamaica vs Windward Islands