Team Saint Lucia has clearly struggled in this year’s Windward Islands Cricket Board Women’s T20 Championship, delivering disappointing performances. The competition, held at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) from January 4 to 9, has highlighted Saint Lucia’s weaknesses.
After a loss to the hosts SVG in the tournament opener, and then losing to Grenada in the next match, the team faced another setback on Wednesday, suffering a defeat against Dominica.
In a low-scoring match, Dominica batted first, managing to post a total of 107 for 4 in their allotted overs. Amiah Gilbert led the charge with a solid 50* off 60 balls, while Abini St Jean contributed 26 off 38 balls.
Although the Saint Lucian bowlers worked hard to contain the Dominica batters, with Selena Ross taking two wickets and Zadia James and Ammie Antoine claiming one each, the batters crumbled under pressure, resulting in a disappointing 42-run loss.
Chasing a target of 108 for victory, Team Saint Lucia could only muster a dismal 65 runs, bowled out in 16 overs. Ashlene Edward managed a modest 21 (26 balls), while skipper Zadia James added 14 (8 balls).
Jinnie Valmond was the standout bowler for Dominica, claiming three wickets, while Jennifer Gasper and Amiah Gilbert each took two.
Result:
-Dominica 107/4 (20 overs)
– Saint Lucia 65 all out (16 overs)
In their opening match on Sunday, Team Saint Lucia lost to the defending champions SVG by six wickets. After being sent in to bat first, the team started strong but collapsed, ultimately posting a score of 117-9.
Team Saint Lucia posted an opening stand of 60 without loss by the 7th over, featuring Edward with 36 off 29 balls, and James 13 off 15. But , with James’s dismissal the rot set in with the loss of five quick wickets; before Namiah Marcellin hit 22 from 26 balls, to lift Saint Lucia to a triple-figure score of 117-9 from their 20 overs.
Tracy Byron shone for the home team with figures of 3-17, while Areka Hooper and Tomeshia Deane supported well with two wickets each.
SVG successfully chased down the target, anchored by Janillea Glasgow’s impressive 60 runs.
Grenada also showcased their dominance by defeating Dominica on the opening day, bolstered by an outstanding century from Afy Fletcher.
As of January 7th, Grenada remains undefeated, while SVG and Grenada are poised for a final clash on January 9th.
The tournament has made it clear that Saint Lucia’s performance has been inadequate, leading to an early exit for the team.
The finals will feature Grenada seeking to extend their unbeaten streak while SVG aims for a historic win at home.