The Leeward Islands Women moved one step closer to a dream appearance in the final of this year's West Indies Women’s T20 Blaze after registering a comfortable 36-run victory over Trinidad and Tobago on Friday.
Headlined by a sparkling knock from Shawnisha Hector and a clinical bowling performance led by Amanda Edwards, the Leewards notched their third win of the tournament at Arnos Vale Field and are closer to a spot in Sunday's showpiece, where Guyana await their opponent.
The Leeward Islands have to await the outcome of the Jamaica versus Guyana and the Windward Islands versus Barbados contests. Reigning champions Jamaica, as well as Windward Islands, already have two wins under their belts, and commanding wins in their games on Friday would see net run rate deciding the other finalists.
Scores: Leeward Islands Women 133-5 (20 overs); Trinidad and Tobago Women 97-8 (20 overs)
After being asked to bat first in what was a must-win contest for both teams, the Leewards posted a competitive total, with Hector leading from the front. The hard-hitting right-hander smashed four boundaries and three sixes in a blistering 40 off 26 balls, which set the tone for the innings, as she shared in a vital 63-run opening stand with Qiana Joseph (25 off 29).
Despite a wobble in the middle overs, including the loss of three wickets for just seven runs, the Leewards regained control thanks to a composed, unbeaten 32 from captain Jahzara Claxton. The left-hander struck one four and two sixes in her 28-ball knock.
Trinidad and Tobago’s bowlers struggled for breakthroughs, as only Shalini Samaroo (3-18) and Amrita Ramtahal (2-20) enjoyed any success in the Leewards’ batting order.
In response, Trinidad and Tobago never really found their rhythm, and as such, were restricted to another paltry total and condemned to a third defeat. Wickets fell regularly under pressure, and none of their batters passed 21, with Lee-Ann Kirby’s 21 off 23 the lone bright spark in an otherwise subdued chase.
Edwards, who made an impact with the ball after a brief stint at the crease, returned figures of 3-17 from her four overs, as she accounted for the top order—Rachel Vincent (five), Shunelle Sawh (11), and Djenaba Joseph (zero)—in quick succession.
She was ably supported by the economical Hector, Rozel Liburd, and Davronique Maynard, each of whom picked up a wicket while maintaining tight lines.