Cricket West Indies (CWI) has appointed Nyssa Pierre as its new Communications and Media Manager.

It was announced on Tuesday.

Pierre, Trinidad & Tobago national, holds a bachelor's degree in Communications and Spanish from York University in Canada, Executive Diplomas in Protocol & Soft Diplomacy from the ISPD in Belgium, and a Graduate Certificate in Destination Marketing from Temple University in the USA.

She is highly qualified, with 15 years in regional and international strategic communications and public relations roles. She has worked with some of the Caribbean's most recognisable brands and personalities, developing and executing branding and communication strategies, creating compelling content, and organising high-visibility events.

Pierre’s expertise includes crisis communication, government communication, and sports, where she has collaborated with current and former West Indies players, cricket leagues, Olympians, and state sports agencies.

CWI’s Chief Executive Officer, Johnny Grave, welcomed Pierre to the organisation.

“We are delighted that Nyssa Pierre will join us as our new Communications and Media Manager. Her appointment followed a transparent and competitive recruitment process, and she is the ideal person to take up this crucial role. Nyssa is an experienced senior communications professional, and we look forward to her playing an active role in our management team,” he said.

Pierre also expressed her delight at being on board.

“My career in communications spans several industries, including corporate, aviation, international development, and government advisory, but I always seem to make it back home to sport. I am honoured to be tasked with telling the stories of West Indian passion, excitement, and determination through our most unifying pastime. Win, lose, or draw – we are the incomparable West Indies, and I am excited to rally as only we can,” she declared.

Pierre will officially join CWI in September and will be based at the CWI headquarters at Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), Antigua.

After a topsy-turvy week in which they lost their opening Concacaf Caribbean Cup encounter, sacked Harold Thomas, and brought back Theodore ‘Tappa’ Whitmore, Mount Pleasant FA will be hoping to ride a more positive wave when they engage Arnett Gardens on Tuesday.

While it will be Mount Pleasant’s second Group A outing, having lost 0-2 to reigning Jamaica Premier League (JPL) champions Cavalier last week, Arnett Gardens will be wetting their feet in the tournament for the first time since winning the Caribbean Club Shield, and they will be intent on maintaining their rich vein of form.

Sabina Park should be abuzz for the 5:00pm encounter, which has mouth-watering prospects, as Arnett Gardens and Mount Pleasant have met several times in the JPL with both teams securing six wins apiece while drawing another five. However, this will be their first ever meeting in this tournament.

With both teams hunting their first point to stay in touch with group leaders Cavalier (three points), as well as Trinidad and Tobago’s Police FC and Haiti’s Real Hope on a point each, it is anybody’s guess where the points will go, if not being shared.

Though targeting victory on return to the St Ann-based club, Whitmore is by no means grandstanding against a high-riding Arnett Gardens.

“Arnett Gardens are just coming out of a tournament, which they won. So they will be upbeat. Our players know the task at hand. They know it’s going to be a difficult game, but I think this unit is up for it,” Whitmore said in a pre-game conference.

“It’s for us to put ourselves out there and give 110 percent. But there is one other thing, and that is to get a positive result. We have not spent a lot of time with the players, so we are still trying to put the pieces together. Hopefully, come match day, we will be ready,” he added.

For Arnett Gardens Head coach Xavier Gilbert, this encounter represents the start of their quest to cop a coveted double-title feat, much like last year’s winners, SV Robinhood of Suriname.

“It would be nice to win the double, but we just want to take it one step at a time and not think too far ahead. This first game is going to be extremely tough because Mount Pleasant are coming off a loss, and I am sure they will want to ensure that they stay in the hunt,” Gilbert stated.

“They are a quality team, and they have acquired some good players, so it is going to be tough, but we are going to put our best foot forward and ensure that we get something out of the game. We anticipate that Whitmore, who coached them last year, knows the players well, and he will probably put the pieces together despite not having a lot of time,” he noted.

Elsewhere in Group B on Tuesday, Dominican Republic’s Moca FC will host Trinidad and Tobago's AC Port of Spain at the Estadio Moca 85.

Both are on a point each, same as another Dominican Republic outfit, Cibao FC, who will also host Antigua and Barbuda club Grenades FC at the Estadio Cibao.

Grenades FC, who were runners-up to Arnett Gardens in the CFU Club Shield, will be out for the first time in this tournament.

Meanwhile, Group A leaders Cavalier will be back in action on Thursday against Police FC at Sabina Park.

Alinton Frankson’s name was once synonymous with grit and determination on the football field, but he now faces his toughest battle yet—not against an opposing team, but against a severe medical condition that threatens his quality of life.

The former schoolboy football standout, who represented Paul Bogle High and Excelsior High with distinction in the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) schoolboy football competitions and later played in the SportsMax Elite League, is in dire need of Complex Lymphoedema Therapy (CLT) following an injury that has left him with complications requiring urgent treatment.

Lymphoedema, a condition characterized by severe swelling due to fluid retention, has taken a toll on Frankson, limiting his mobility and causing immense discomfort. The treatment he needs, CLT, is a highly specialized form of care that requires significant financial resources—resources that are beyond the reach of the former athlete and his family.

But Frankson’s story is not just one of adversity, it is also one of hope and community. The now 24-year-old’s plight has touched the hearts of many, leading to a remarkable outpouring of support from several major Jamaican corporations and influential figures in the sports community.

In a show of solidarity, Digicel and Wisynco, two of Jamaica’s leading brands, committed $300,000 each for Frankson’s treatment, while KFC committed a generous $500,000 through their Add Hope program, and a well-known figure in Jamaican football, Craig Butler, pledged another $800,000. ISSA has also hosted a silent auction to raise funds for the cause.

ISSA President Keith Wellington (second right) greets Alinton Frankson as Cari-Med Group's Brand Manager Stephen Reid (right) and Tynielle Chambers look on.

Frankson, who was initially reluctant to make his situation public, is now overwhelmed by the tremendous outpouring of support, which provides a much-needed boost in his efforts to secure the treatment.

“I'm really grateful, especially knowing that I don't have that strong family support. At first, I didn't want to take it to the media, but I realized that I had no choice but to do so because I wasn't getting the help that is needed, so I am happy that I did. I want to say thanks to each and everyone who have come forward to provide support, and I will make the most of it,” Frankson told SportsMax.Tv.

Since being diagnosed with the condition, Frankson revealed that he has endured bouts of depressive episodes, but he continues to draw strength from the fact that recovery is very much possible and, as such, he refuses to be defeated.

“To be honest, some of the times when I see football playing, my emotions set in, and there are times when I feel depressed knowing that I don't have the chance to play the game that I love so much. But at the same time, I have to try to encourage myself, knowing that it's not the end of the world and I still have life and there is still hope. So I just keep a positive mind and just try not to stress or think about the situation,” Frankson, who was present at this year’s ISSA schoolboy football launch at Stadium East, shared.

“So, even though the foot at this moment is swollen and sometimes there is a little stiffness and discomfort, my spirit has been lifted even more now knowing that so many people are behind me and knowing that I am supposed to do some therapy session in Jamaica sometime soon. So again, I am really grateful and just looking ahead with a positive attitude,” he added as he fought back tears.

KFC's Brand Manager Andrei Roper

For Digicel’s Chief Marketing Officer, Tari Lovell, Frankson’s situation presents another opportunity for Jamaicans to once again showcase the power and strength found in unity.

“As a Jamaican brand, we thought it would only be fit that we make a donation towards Alinton's surgery and towards the complex needs that are required for his diagnosis. It's important as a corporate business and Jamaican brand to give back to Jamaica. We are all about nation-building, and, of course, the youth athletes are the future of Jamaica, so it would be remiss of us not to be a part of this and not to put our money where our mouth is. So we're really excited to be able to donate to this phenomenal cause, and I encourage all Jamaicans to rally behind this,” Lovell said.

KFC’s brand manager, Andrei Roper, said it was a no-brainer that his organisation stepped up, especially given that their Add Hope program is a charitable initiative aimed at supporting community causes and, by extension, to positively impact individuals facing life-altering challenges.

“Alinton’s plight is a serious one. We know the potential that he has both on and off the field, and so we wanted to do our part through our KFC Add Hope program to ensure that he gets the surgery he needs,” Roper said.

“Separate and apart from feeding programs, we also have extended our Add Hope program to focus on education and culture. In this instance, a young man with a bright future is at risk of having that future cut short, and we wanted to, along with the other sponsors, play our part through this additional donation of $500,000 to complement our $15 million investment in this year’s schoolboy football,” he explained.

Mona High's head coach Craig Butler (left) with Clarendon College counterpart Lenworth 'Teacha' Hyde.

Butler, who was deeply moved by Frankson’s situation, pointed out that his contribution is not just financial but one that represents a message to the entire sports community about the importance of rallying behind one of their own in times of need.

“I have beaten cancer, and I'm also now not well, so I know what it feels like to be in a tough situation, and to see a young man in that position, I want him to know that he should fight. I want him to know that people love him and believe in him. Many times God puts us in positions where we are successful, but we forget the reason why, which is to lead the way and help others,” Butler reasoned.

“When I heard his story, I was moved, I thought of Dujuan Richards, who did a minor surgery, but it could have easily been a career-ending surgery. So, I want to help this young man to start to believe again, to fight again, because no matter what the diagnosis is, God heals, and we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us,” the Phoenix Academy boss and coach of reigning Manning Cup champions Mona High noted.

The athletics world mourns the loss of George Vincent Rhoden, a Jamaican sporting icon and two-time Olympic gold medalist, who passed away at the age of 97 on August 24, 2024. Rhoden was the last surviving member of Jamaica's historic 4x400m relay team that clinched gold at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, marking a significant moment in Jamaica’s rich athletic history.

 Born on December 13, 1926, in Kingston, Jamaica, Rhoden’s journey to Olympic greatness began in the late 1940s, where he emerged as one of the leading long sprinters of his era. Alongside his compatriots Arthur Wint and Herb McKenley, Rhoden helped establish Jamaica as a dominant force in athletics during the post-war period.

 Rhoden first competed in the 1948 London Olympics, where he participated in the 100m and 400m events. Although he did not secure a medal in London, it was a precursor to the greatness that would follow. Rhoden and his teammates were expected to perform strongly in the 4x400m relay, but a muscle injury to Wint during the final dashed their hopes of a medal.

 Undeterred, Rhoden continued to build on his successes. On August 22, 1950, he set a new world record in the 400m, clocking 45.8 seconds in Eskilstuna, Sweden. His dominance in the 400m was further cemented by his victories in the AAU championships from 1949 to 1951 and the NCAA championships while at Morgan State University, where he claimed titles in the 220-yard (200m) and 440-yard (400m) events.

 Rhoden’s crowning achievement came at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, where he was a pre-race favorite in the 400m. In a thrilling race, Rhoden narrowly edged out his fellow Jamaican and close friend, Herb McKenley, to claim the gold medal. But Rhoden’s Olympic glory did not end there. As the anchor leg of Jamaica’s 4x400m relay team, he led his team to victory, securing a second gold medal and setting a new world record of 3:03.9. This victory was especially sweet, as it came against the United States, the country where Rhoden had made his home after moving to San Francisco.

 Rhoden’s legacy is one of perseverance, excellence, and national pride. His achievements paved the way for future generations of Jamaican athletes, setting a standard of excellence that continues to inspire.

 As the last surviving member of that legendary 1952 relay team—comprising Rhoden, Herb McKenley, Arthur Wint, and Les Laing—his passing marks the end of an era for Jamaican athletics. Rhoden’s contributions to the sport, both on and off the track, will be remembered as a cornerstone of Jamaica's rich sporting heritage.

 George Rhoden is survived by his family, friends, and a grateful nation that will forever honor his contributions to Jamaica's sporting legacy.

The Jamaica Football Federation expressed great elation after the country’s National U14 Team clinched the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Under 14 Challenger Series in Trinidad and Tobago over the weekend.

Jamaica capped a dominant display throughout the tournament by defeating French Guiana 7-1 in the final at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago on Sunday.

In the 6 matches played, Jamaica scored 25 goals and only conceded two with only one of them coming from open play.

Their results in the tournament were as follows: 2-0 vs St. Kitts & Nevis, 6-0 vs Aruba, 2-0 vs Trinidad & Tobago, 5-0 vs Aruba, 3-1 vs Puerto Rico and 7-1 vs French Guiana.

President of the Jamaica Football Federation Michael Ricketts expressed commendation for the team and the coaching staff in a press release on Monday.

“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to our National U14 team for their performances in the recently concluded CFU U14 Challenger Series in Trinidad and Tobago. I would like to commend the players for their grit and determination and work rate as they played 6 matches in just over a week.”

He continued: “I would also like to congratulate Coach Andrew Peart and his staff for their hard work in preparing the team for the tournament and I am so delighted that it has paid off and it is a good feeling knowing that we will be returning to Jamaica with a trophy.”

General Secretary of the JFF Mr. Dennis Chung also shared commendation for the team.

“I would like to congratulate the U14 Team on being crowned champions of the Tier 1 group, and also commend the staff. This performance is a result of the deliberate effort to adopt the FIFA TDS programme, which is already bearing some fruit.”

Jamaica’s young Reggae Boyz capped off a phenomenal showing at the Tier 1 CFU Boys' U14 Challenger Series with a dominant 7-1 victory over French Guiana in the final on Sunday at the Dwight Yorke Stadium.

Carlondo Morris and Kelvin Brown were the stars of the day for the Jamaicans with a hat trick and a brace, respectively.

French Guiana went ahead in the 21st minute through a looping shot from Matheo Francois before Brown equalized in the second half.

Morris then gave the Jamaicans their first lead of the day in the 52nd minute.

In the blink of an eye, the lead swelled to 5-1 through goals from Brown (54’) and a brace from Morris (58’, 61’) to complete his hat trick.

Second-half substitutes Samuel Taylor and Jaedan Brown-Hanniford notched goals to complete the 7-1 win for Jamaica.

In their six games in the tournament, Jamaica went unbeaten scoring 25 goals and conceding just two.

Jamaica also dominated the individual awards with Marcodean Spence copping the best goalkeeper award, Brown for best forward, and Davion Clarke for Most Valuable Player.

Meanwhile, Barbados took the Tier 2 title, defeating Bermuda 4-3 on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

The West Indies clinched their third successive series win against South Africa with a dramatic 30-run victory at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Sunday. A potent bowling attack, led by Romario Shepherd, Shamar Joseph, Akeal Hosein, and Matthew Forde, played a pivotal role in dismantling South Africa's chase and securing the win.

Set a target of 180, South Africa appeared to be in a strong position at 129 for 3 in the 14th over, but the West Indies bowlers had other plans. In a stunning collapse, South Africa lost seven wickets for just 20 runs within the space of 35 balls, eventually being bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs, falling short by 30 runs.

The West Indies' innings was anchored by key contributions from Shai Hope (41) and Rovman Powell (35), allowing them to post a competitive 179 for 6. South Africa's bowlers, led by Lizaad Williams (3 for 36) and Gerald Coetzee (2 for 29), kept the West Indies' scoring in check, but the hosts managed a late flourish, adding 50 runs in the last five overs.

South Africa started their chase aggressively, racing to 100 inside 10 overs, but the West Indies bowlers tightened the screws in the middle overs. Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie delivered crucial breakthroughs, dismissing Tristan Stubbs and Donovan Ferreira respectively. However, it was the duo of Romario Shepherd and Shamar Joseph who truly turned the game on its head.

Shepherd was particularly effective, claiming 3 for 15 in his four overs, while Joseph recorded a career-best 3 for 31. Their combined efforts derailed South Africa's chase, which at one point seemed on track for victory.

South Africa's middle-order collapse highlighted concerns for the visitors, with only one batter from No. 3 down managing to surpass 20 runs. In a match where individual scoring milestones were scarce, the West Indies' ability to clear the boundary made the difference. They hit 13 sixes compared to South Africa's six, underscoring their superiority in power-hitting.

The 47-run stand between Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford provided the West Indies with a crucial edge, as their late acceleration ensured a challenging total for South Africa.

The victory not only secured the series for the West Indies but also demonstrated their growing dominance over South Africa, particularly in home conditions. The hosts will now look to build on this momentum as they prepare for future challenges.

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) is deeply saddened by the passing of Amadeo Ignacio Daniel Francis Jr., the former President of the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) and a towering figure in the world of athletics. Francis, who hailed from Puerto Rico, passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication and significant contributions to the sport across the Americas and beyond.

JAAA President Garth Gayle expressed his heartfelt condolences, recognizing Francis as a stalwart supporter of athletics and a true friend of Jamaica. "We have lost a solid partner and friend who worked assiduously to improve our sport in this region. He was always ready to listen and, if possible, encourage and implement programs that helped to elevate the sport. Amadeo was a giant among men. Sincere condolences to his family and friends along with the Puerto Rican Athletics Federation," said Gayle.

Amadeo Francis was primarily known as a talented 400-metre hurdler, representing Puerto Rico at the 1952 and 1956 Olympic Games. He also served as a reserve in the 4x400m relay during both Olympic appearances. Francis demonstrated his athletic prowess by finishing fourth in the 400m hurdles at the 1955 Pan American Games and competing in two editions of the Central American and Caribbean Games.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Francis was a distinguished academic and professional. He graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico in 1951 and earned a Master of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics in 1955. He later returned to the University of Puerto Rico, where he completed a Master of Public Administration in 1959.

Francis's career spanned several key positions in public administration and economic development. He quickly rose to become the Director of the Office of Economic Research in Puerto Rico and later held various executive roles, including Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Manufacturers Association, Deputy Administrator of the Puerto Rico Economic Development Administration in New York, and Commissioner of Commerce for the United States Virgin Islands.

In sports administration, Francis made an indelible impact on the global stage. He served on the council of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), now known as World Athletics, and held the position of Vice-President within the organization. As President of NACAC for two decades, Francis was instrumental in advancing athletics in the region. He also served as President of the Pan American Athletics Commission, further solidifying his influence in the world of sports.

Throughout his career, Francis received numerous accolades, including induction into the Hall of Fame of Puerto Rico Sports in 1980, and the prestigious Silver (1996) and Gold (2008) Order of Merit from the IAAF. His lifetime of achievements was recognized in 2020 when Marquis Who's Who presented him with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting his outstanding leadership and contributions to his field.

Amadeo Francis's passing marks the end of an era for athletics in the Caribbean and the Americas. His legacy, however, will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and administrators. The JAAA, along with the entire athletics community, mourns the loss of a true pioneer and extends its deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and the Puerto Rican Athletics Federation.

 In early October 2024, Panam Sports, the continental Olympic body for the Americas, will hold its Elective General Assembly in Asuncion, Paraguay. This event holds particular significance for the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), as its President Keith Joseph will once again contest the presidency of Panam Sports, formerly known as the Pan American Sports Organisation (PASO).

This isn't the first time CANOC has aimed for the highest office within Panam Sports. In 2017, three representatives from CANOC member National Olympic Committees (NOCs) — Jose Joaquin Puello of the Dominican Republic, Richard Peterkin of St. Lucia, and a candidate from St. Vincent and the Grenadines — were nominated to contest the PASO presidency. In a display of Caribbean unity, the region's representatives rallied behind Dr. Puello as the sole candidate. Despite this unified support, Dr. Puello narrowly lost to Chile’s Neven Ilic by just one vote.

As the 2024 election approaches, CANOC's involvement extends beyond the presidential race. Several of its members are vying for positions on the Panam Sports Executive Board, representing Group 2. Grenada’s Veda Bruno-Victor is the sole candidate for the Vice Presidency of the group. Meanwhile, Erskine Simmons of Barbados, Roberto Rivas of Cuba, Sara Rosario of Puerto Rico, Dennis Knight of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Alfred Emmanuel of St. Lucia are competing for three available positions within the group.

Given the limited number of positions available, CANOC must strategically evaluate its candidates to ensure the region is represented as effectively as possible. This process echoes the spirit of solidarity demonstrated in 2017, with the understanding that supporting the best candidates ultimately advances CANOC’s goals and the broader interests of the Caribbean region.

 Over the years, CANOC has proven that it possesses the quality, competence, and commitment necessary to play a significant role in international sports. The organization has a rich legacy of breaking barriers and embodying the aspirations of Caribbean peoples. This history of success underscores the importance of the upcoming Panam Sports election, particularly in securing leadership positions that will influence the future of sports across the Americas.

 CANOC’s continued growth and impact on global sports are a testament to its belief in the transformative power of sport. As the organization advocates for its nominated members, it does so with the conviction that their success will bring substantial benefits to the Caribbean region through enhanced representation, recognition, and strategic development

Quick-service food giant Restaurants of Jamaica (ROJ), through its flagship brand KFC, recently announced a JMD $15 million sponsorship investment for the 2024 ISSA Schoolboy Football season. This sponsorship marks another significant milestone in KFC's ongoing commitment to nurturing Jamaica’s young football talent, helping to shape the future champions of the nation.

As the new season prepares to kick off on Saturday, September 7, KFC is set to continue its long-standing tradition of supporting Jamaican youth both on and off the football field. KFC Jamaica’s Marketing Manager, Andrei Roper, expressed the brand’s excitement for the upcoming season, stating, “We’re thrilled to be back on board for this journey with our young and talented athletes in what promises to be a season filled with standout performances and memorable moments. Schoolboy Football provides a platform for our young boys to realize their full potential and even plot a path for their future. It gives them the opportunity to showcase their skills not only on the field but in becoming upstanding young men, and so KFC sees this competition as the perfect opportunity to help set them up for success and also to help give back to the community.”

KFC’s involvement in the ISSA Schoolboy Football season goes beyond the financial sponsorship, reflecting the brand’s broader commitment to the development of youth and the community. In a touching gesture, KFC has also donated JMD $500,000 through their KFC Add Hope Outreach Programme to former standout football player Alinton Frankson. Alinton, who previously played for Paul Bogle High, Excelsior High, and the SportsMax Elite League, had his promising career cut short by a devastating injury that led to a diagnosis of lymphoedema, a condition that has severely impacted his health.

KFC Marketing Manager, Andrei Roper (right) seals the deal with Alinton Frankson (left) at the recent launch of the 2024 Schoolboy Football Launch at the National Stadium.

Expressing his gratitude for KFC’s support, Alinton said, “I am incredibly grateful for this generous donation from KFC. The journey toward securing the necessary funds for my treatment has been daunting, and this support has provided tremendous relief. Words cannot fully capture the depth of my appreciation, but I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shown their support. I am also deeply thankful to the other brands, such as Digicel, that have contributed to my recovery. Without this assistance, I would be uncertain about how to restore my health and regain normalcy. Although it has been challenging to come to terms with being unable to participate in the sport I hold so dearly, I remain committed to maintaining a positive outlook and placing my trust in God.”

KFC Jamaica has a long history of supporting youth development through sports, and this latest sponsorship is part of a broader initiative that also includes contributions to basketball and track and field. Earlier this year, KFC sponsored the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) Star Search Basketball and Life Skills Camp, as well as the Jump Ball Basketball Camps. Additionally, KFC entered into a brand partnership with national triple jump sensation Jaydon Hibbert ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

With its continued investment in Jamaica's young athletes, KFC not only fuels the passion and potential of these future stars but also strengthens its legacy as a key supporter of youth development in the country. As the 2024 ISSA Schoolboy Football season approaches, KFC's involvement promises to add another layer of excitement to a competition that has become a crucial part of Jamaica's sporting culture.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors claimed their first victory in the 2024 Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) with a commanding eight-wicket win over the Trinbago Knight Riders at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad. A stunning 78 off 48 balls from Erin Burns was the cornerstone of their successful chase, helping the Warriors overcome a shaky start to secure the win with 16 balls to spare.

Chasing a target of 131 in favorable batting conditions, the Warriors found themselves in early trouble at 15-2 after losing Natasha McLean and Stafanie Taylor within the first few overs. The pressure mounted as Jonassen and seamer Shikha Pandey applied the brakes, making run-scoring difficult in the powerplay.

However, Burns, alongside captain Lauren Winfield-Hill, who scored a solid 46 off 47 balls, steadied the ship with an unbroken 119-run partnership, the highest ever in the competition. The duo expertly navigated the tricky period, combining aggressive stroke play with calculated risk-taking, which paid off handsomely.

Burns, who was dropped twice during her innings, capitalized on those chances to anchor the chase. She reached her half-century off just 32 balls and continued to find the boundary with ease, particularly down the ground and through the leg side. Winfield-Hill played the perfect supporting role, rotating the strike and allowing Burns to dominate the innings.

Earlier, the Knight Riders posted a total of 130-6, a score that seemed competitive at the halfway mark. The team’s captain, Deandra Dottin, and Harshitha Samarawickrama laid a strong foundation with a half-century opening partnership. Samarawickrama, replacing the injured Meg Lanning, was particularly impressive, displaying elegant strokes and punishing anything short as she guided the team to 37-0 after the powerplay.

Despite the solid start, the Knight Riders' momentum stalled once spinner Chloe Tryon was introduced into the attack. Tryon, who finished with figures of 4-21, struck with her very first delivery, dismissing Dottin with a brilliant catch by Ashmini Munisar at gully. She then bowled Samarawickrama, who attempted a reverse sweep, and stifled the Knight Riders in the middle overs.

Jemimah Rodrigues and Jess Jonassen provided a late surge with a quick 44-run partnership, but Tryon once again swung the momentum in the Warriors' favor by removing Jonassen for 28 and then dismissing Kycia Knight in the penultimate over.

The Knight Riders' final total ultimately fell short, and the Warriors, despite the early hiccups in their chase, displayed their depth and resilience to record their first points of the tournament.

This victory will serve as a significant confidence boost for the Warriors as they look to build momentum in the competition. Both teams had entered this match desperate for a win after losing to the Barbados Royals in their opening fixtures, but it was the Warriors who emerged triumphant, thanks to Burns' heroics and Tryon's pivotal bowling performance.