ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The Guyana Harpy Eagles have once again etched their name into Caribbean cricket history, clinching their third consecutive West Indies Championship title after a determined draw against the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.
The conclusion of the seventh and final round on Saturday marked not just another trophy in the cabinet—but a reaffirmation of the Eagles’ dominance in red-ball cricket.
Emerging from the season unbeaten and topping the points table with 126.6 points, the Harpy Eagles secured the grand prize of US$250,000, capping off a performance defined by strategic brilliance, team cohesion, and indomitable will.
CWI President salutes the champions
In a statement of high praise, Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow extended warm congratulations to the Guyanese squad, highlighting their excellence and unified approach throughout the championship.
“On behalf of Cricket West Indies, I offer sincere congratulations to the Guyana Harpy Eagles on their remarkable achievement,” Dr. Shallow stated. “Winning back-to-back titles is no small feat, and their undefeated run this season is a testament to the leadership of captain Tevin Imlach and the collective effort of the players and coaching staff.”
He commended not only their consistency but also the level of commitment that has become the hallmark of the Harpy Eagles’ recent campaigns.
Signs of progress across the region
While celebrating the champions, Dr. Shallow also took a broader view of the tournament, noting encouraging trends across all participating teams.
“We are equally encouraged by the overall standard of play across the tournament. The emergence of new talent, the development of our fast bowlers, and the improved application of our batters show promising signs that align with our long-term vision for West Indies cricket, particularly in the Test format.”
The statement speaks to the championship’s role as a proving ground for the next generation of Test cricketers—a vital component of the region’s cricketing ecosystem.
Red-ball revival
Confronting common criticism head-on, Dr. Shallow dismissed claims that the traditional four-day format is waning in relevance. Instead, he pointed to compelling data from the 2025 season.
“There has been a prevailing narrative that the four-day format is in decline. However, a view of the data suggests otherwise. This year’s tournament was widely viewed, and the record-breaking online engagement demonstrates that there is still a strong, passionate fanbase for red-ball cricket.”
Streaming platforms, social media, and CWI’s digital channels saw unprecedented audience engagement, reinforcing the Test format’s lasting appeal among West Indies cricket loyalists.
“The growing viewership is a sign that fans continue to appreciate the tactical, patient nature of four-day cricket,” Dr. Shallow continued. “As we move forward, Cricket West Indies is committed to further strengthening the Test format, ensuring that our players are equipped to compete at the highest level internationally.”
Integrity remains non-negotiable
Amid the accolades, Dr. Shallow did not shy away from addressing recent disciplinary matters. In reference to two players penalized for ball tampering, the President made it clear that CWI remains uncompromising in its stance on integrity.
“While we celebrate the success of the season, I want to remind players that Cricket West Indies holds the integrity of the game in the highest regard. There is zero tolerance for conduct that undermines the spirit of cricket and brings the game into disrepute.”
His message reinforced that championship victories must be earned with not only skill, but honor—a tradition central to the legacy of West Indies cricket.
“The legacy of West Indies cricket has always been built on talent, pride, and integrity, and we are committed to upholding our core values,” he affirmed.
The road ahead
The 2025 West Indies Championship, played across world-class venues in the Caribbean, not only crowned a champion but also shone a spotlight on emerging potential, resilience, and a growing love for the long-form game.
As the Harpy Eagles bask in the glow of a hard-earned three-peat, the tournament’s conclusion signals more than a moment of celebration—it’s a marker in a greater journey of rebuilding, resurgence, and regional pride.
West Indies cricket is evolving—and the future is taking shape.
