In a thrilling final showdown at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, the West Indies Academy pulled off a stunning run chase to defeat Barbados Pride by three wickets, thus sealing the West Indies Championship title for Guyana Harpy Eagles.
Facing a target of 219 runs on the last day of the final round of matches, the Academy showcased resilience and composure to secure victory late in the final session, shattering Pride’s aspirations of clinching the title. The result was particularly significant as previous leaders Windward Islands Volcanoes settled for a draw against Leeward Islands Hurricanes, allowing Harpy Eagles to reclaim the top spot.
The defending champions, Harpy Eagles, positioned themselves favorably for the title with a resounding victory over Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners earlier in the round, accumulating 103.8 points.
Although Pride had opportunities to make the contest closer, crucial misses and tactical errors cost them dearly. A dropped catch off the bowling of off-spinning captain Kraigg Brathwaite, followed by a composed finish from the Academy, ultimately decided the outcome.
Pivotal roles in the Academy’s victory
Opener Rashawn Worrell and Kadeem Alleyne played pivotal roles in the Academy’s victory, forming a solid opening partnership of 85 runs. Worrell’s patient innings of 63 and Alleyne’s aggressive 52 laid the foundation for the successful run chase.
Despite some setbacks, including the controversial dismissal of Alleyne and the loss of key wickets, the Academy held their nerve with contributions from Carlon Bowen-Tuckett and Ashmead Nedd, guiding them to a memorable triumph.
Earlier in the match, Pride posted 308 in their second innings, with left-hander Raymon Reifer leading the charge with an unbeaten 82. However, their efforts were not enough to withstand the Academy’s determined pursuit of victory.
With this remarkable win, the West Indies Academy not only secured a memorable triumph but also played a significant role in handing the West Indies Championship title to Guyana Harpy Eagles, marking the culmination of an enthralling cricket season in the Caribbean.
