KINGSTOWN, St Vincent — Amanda Edwards delivered a decisive all-round performance to propel the Leeward Islands Women to a dramatic seven-run victory over defending champions Guyana Women, handing them their first defeat of the tournament as the T20 Blaze continued at the Arnos Vale Playing Field on Thursday.
In a contest that swung repeatedly before a stunning late collapse, Edwards’ composure with the bat and precision with the ball proved decisive in one of the competition’s most gripping finishes.
Boyce anchors, Edwards accelerates
Batting first, the Leewards struggled for momentum on a challenging surface and were eventually restricted to 106 for nine from their 20 overs. The innings was carried almost entirely by Reniece Boyce and Edwards, who combined for the bulk of the scoring.
Boyce struck a patient 51 from 54 deliveries, finding the boundary seven times, while Edwards contributed a crucial 31 off 29 balls, including two sixes and two fours. Together, they stitched a 49-run partnership for the third wicket that gave the Leewards a fighting chance.
Remarkably, no other batter reached double figures, with the next highest individual score being just four.
Munisar and Millington apply the brakes
Once Boyce and Edwards were removed by West Indies spinner Ashmini Munisar, the Leewards’ innings faltered badly. They managed only 29 runs in the final six overs as Guyana tightened their grip.
Munisar was outstanding, claiming 4 for 15 from her four overs, while Plaffiana Millington provided strong support with figures of 3 for 11.
Guyana seize control of the chase
In reply, Guyana recovered swiftly from the early loss of Realeanna Grimmond for four, advancing to 51 for one through Sheneta Grimmond and captain Shemaine Campbelle.
Even after losing Sheneta (23), Shabika Gajnabi (2), and Campbelle (11) in quick succession to slip to 54 for four, Guyana appeared firmly on course. Mandy Mangru and Munisar added 33 runs, leaving the champions needing just 20 runs from 21 balls with six wickets in hand.
Collapse at the finish line
What followed was a stunning unraveling. Guyana lost composure under pressure, suffering two run-outs before Edwards returned to strike twice in the closing moments.
The defending champions lost their final six wickets for only 12 runs and were bowled out for 99 off the last ball of the innings, turning a commanding position into a heartbreaking defeat.
Edwards capped her match-winning display with figures of 3 for 18. She was well supported by Qiana Joseph, who took 2 for 10, and Davronique Maynard, who finished with 2 for 13.
