Leeward Islands head coach Percy Daniel was beaming with pride and emotion as he reflected on his team’s historic triumph in the CG United Women’s Super50 Cup.
Daniel’s side registered their first-ever victory in the 50-over format of the tournament when they edged defending champions Jamaica by a single wicket in a dramatic run chase at Warner Park on Monday.
Jamaica posted a formidable total of 253-9, but Leeward Islands responded in emphatic fashion to get to 257-9 and claim a stunning victory. It was a performance defined by grit, teamwork, and individual brilliance, with several players stepping up in crucial moments to etch their names into the history books.
For Daniel, the significance of the moment was overwhelming.
“Not only the first win, but the first win in a 50-over in this tournament. I’m more than elated. This is long overdue,” he said while still processing the magnitude of the achievement.
Leeward Islands’ win was built on outstanding all-round performances, particularly from Kimberly Anthony, who took a sensational 5-34 and contributed a vital 37 runs with the bat. Captain Amanda Edwards led from the front with an unbeaten 88 after earlier taking 2-42, while Jahzara Claxton chipped in with 2-49 and a valuable 34.
Along with those standout performances, Daniel also singled out Chey-Anne Moses for her small but crucial 11-run contribution, which he felt exemplified the team’s determination.
“One of the staff has been constantly asking me to play Moses because he felt like she had something to offer. And she did something in this game that is unusual but rewarding to the team. We are really grateful for that performance from Chey-Anne,” he declared.
For Daniel, what stood out most was how his team executed the game plan.
“In our team meetings, we’ve always said that a top-order batter must carry the innings deep. That was exactly what Amanda did. We’ve been asking for one of our players to step up, and she did it for the first time in this tournament. We are grateful for that,” Daniel noted.
With the game going down to the wire, the mental strength and composure shown by his players in pressure moments were just as impressive as their physical skills.
Daniel also heaped praise on Anthony, who not only dismantled Jamaica’s batting lineup with the ball but also played a crucial role with the bat in the chase.
“She decided that today (Monday) was going to be her day. She said it this morning, and I told her, ‘All you need to do is prove to us that you can do what you’ve been promising over the years.’ And she did just that,” Daniel revealed.
“One thing I would say, though, is game awareness. She wasn’t even aware that the fielder had come in from the long-on position. Had things gone differently, the outcome might have been different. But that’s all part of the learning process, and we appreciate everything she did today. She said she was going to perform, and she did. We are grateful for that,” he added.
Leeward Islands will be hoping to add to their success when they challenge Barbados Women on Wednesday. Sportsmax
