Guyana (Windiescricket.com) – Jamaica were crowned champions of the Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze tournament as they recorded a massive victory by 124 runs against Leeward Islands in the final day of the tournament on Tuesday.
There was tension and drama at the Guyana National Stadium, as front-runner Barbados lost to Trinidad and Tobago in the morning match and then Jamaica secured their victory. Both Barbados and Jamaica ended with four wins and one defeat to record the same number of points, the winners were decided on superior net run rate.
Winning the toss and batting first, the Jamaicans were led by Natasha McLean who smashed her career-best score and the highest for the tournament. The powerful 27-year-old opener made 83 off just 54 balls which included nine sizzling boundaries and three towering sixes. Taylor also came to the party as she made 56 from 51 balls which included five fours. They shared a record 145-run partnership – the highest this tournament as well – to lift the team to 170-5 off their 20 overs. The Jamaica bowlers showed great control and limited the Leeward Islands batting to 46-3 off their 20 overs.
Summarized scores: Jamaica 170 for 5 in 20 overs: McClean 83; Stafanie Taylor 56
Edwards 2 for 11; Saneldo Willet 2 for 31
Leewards: 46 for 3 from 20 overs: Shawnisha Hector 17*; Saneldo Willet 16*
Henry, Waisome and Howell 1 wicket each
Jamaica won by 124 runs
