By Samuel Peters
The Leeward Islands Stormers etched their names into the history books on Saturday morning, securing a historic third consecutive victory in the CWI Women’s T20 Blaze with a hard-fought four-wicket win over last year’s finalists Trinidad and Tobago at Arnos Vale Ground in St. Vincent.
For the first time in the franchise’s history, the Stormers have won three matches in a row in the tournament, maintaining their perfect record and solidifying their position as genuine contenders for the title.
The foundation for victory was once again laid by the Stormers’ bowling attack, which has been the cornerstone of their successful campaign. Trinidad and Tobago, who reached the finals last year, were restricted to a modest 74 for nine from their allotted 20 overs.
The Divas struggled to build any momentum against disciplined bowling and tight fielding. Amelia Khan top-scored for Trinidad and Tobago with 17 runs, while Britney Cooper and Nadia Mohammed each contributed 12 in a batting display that never truly got going.
Davronique Maynard continued her outstanding tournament form, once again proving to be the thorn in the opposition’s side with figures of two for 12. Captain Amanda Edwards led from the front, claiming two for 20 with her spin bowling. Edwards’ ability to contribute with both bat and ball has been crucial to the Stormers’ success throughout the tournament.
However, the pursuit of 75 runs proved more challenging than the modest target suggested. The Stormers found themselves in early trouble, stumbling to 26 for two as the Trinidad and Tobago bowlers struck back.
It was at this critical juncture that the experienced pair of Reniece Boyce and captain Amanda Edwards came to the rescue. The duo, who have been instrumental throughout the tournament, steadied the innings with another crucial partnership.
Boyce, displaying her class and composure, top-scored with 28 runs, while Edwards contributed a vital 27. The partnership rebuilt the innings and appeared to have put the Stormers firmly on course for victory.
Just when it seemed the Stormers were cruising toward their third win, the match took another dramatic turn. The dismissal of Edwards at 57 for three triggered a mini-collapse that sent nervous ripples through the Stormers’ camp.
Trinidad and Tobago sensed an opportunity, and their bowlers capitalized on the momentum shift. The Stormers slipped from 57 for three to 63 for five in quick succession, with Karishma Ramharak doing the damage for the Divas.
Ramharak proved to be the pick of the Trinidad and Tobago bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 13. Her spell threatened to snatch victory from the jaws of what had seemed like certain defeat for the Divas.
With the match hanging in the balance and pressure mounting, it fell to Jahzara Claxton to see the Stormers home. The young batter showed remarkable composure under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 12 to guide her team across the finish line and spark celebrations among the Stormers faithful.
The Stormers’ next challenge comes against Barbados on Monday morning at 9:30 AM, again at the Arnos Vale Ground. Barbados will provide another stern test as the Stormers look to extend their winning streak to four matches.
