By Samuel Peters
The New Winthorpes Lions have emerged as serious title contenders in this year’s first ever Antigua and Barbuda T20 Premier League after securing their third consecutive victory with a commanding 41-run win over Jennings Tigers at Ball Beef, Liberta.
Captain Nino Henry is confident about the team’s prospects following their impressive performance. “Three out of three; I’d say that’s good. Some teams are already knocked out, and I think it’s safe to say that we probably secured a semi-final spot already,” Henry said in an interview on the Good Morning Jojo Sports Show.
The Lions have been consistent throughout the tournament, with their latest win showcasing both batting depth and strength in bowling. After electing to bat first, they posted a competitive 139 for three in their allotted 20 overs, with wicketkeeper Bartlette Henry remaining unbeaten on 50, including two boundaries and three sixes.
Demari Benta continued his fine form with a brisk 43 off just 29 balls, featuring seven boundaries and a six before being run out. The partnership between Henry and Benta set the foundation for what proved to be a match-winning total against a Tigers team that struggled to mount an effective chase.
“At that stage, to get to 139, I think it was good,” Henry explained. “What worked out well for us was we had a set batter in the crease in Bartlett Henry, who has been having a good season. So, the fact that he batted right through the innings, right to the end, we were able to pick up in the latter half of the innings.”
The Lions’ bowling attack, led by veteran Anthony Martin, then dismantled the Tigers’ batting lineup, restricting them to just 89 for nine in their 20 overs. Martin claimed impressive figures of four for 13, while Orandel Boston continued his stellar form with three for 14. Captain Henry demonstrated his all-round ability by picking up two for 14.
This latest triumph follows their 18-run victory over All Saints Pythons on Saturday, where Henry (43) and Benta (32) were also key performers with the bat, while Boston delivered an outstanding bowling performance, claiming three wickets for just 13 runs.
Despite their success, Henry acknowledges there are areas for improvement. “I just need to be a bit more consistent. For example, the last game, our power play wasn’t really the best. I think they actually bowled amazing in the power play to us,” he said. “We still have a bit of clean work to tidy up on, you know, bowling, eliminating some extras, stuff like that.”
The Lions have built their success on a balanced squad combination featuring experienced campaigners like Anthony Martin alongside budding talents. Martin’s contribution extends beyond his wicket-taking ability, with Henry highlighting the veteran’s influence: “When he talks, a lot of the guys listen because, I mean, he’s been there for years. He’s done it over a number of years, and he’s still doing it all now. He’s given me a wealth of knowledge, and he really fits right into what we’re dealing with.”
Looking ahead, the Lions face crucial fixtures this weekend that will determine their playoff opponents. With momentum firmly on their side and a balanced team firing on all cylinders, the New Winthorpes Lions have positioned themselves as legitimate contenders for this season’s championship.
“We have a couple of big games coming up this weekend,” Henry noted. “So, we’re just – hoping that the weather stays good and we’re able to get in a couple of days practice and looking to continue our good run.”
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