In a gripping clash against the Jamaica Tallawahs on Wednesday evening, the Guyana Amazon Warriors showcased their dominance in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, securing a sensational victory in their first home game of the tournament.
Player of the match, Saim Ayub, delivered a stellar performance alongside debutant Matthew Nandu, guiding their team to success.
Opting to bowl first on a grassy surface at the National Stadium, Providence, the Warriors commenced with Dwaine Pretorius and Romario Shepherd leading the attack. While runs flowed during the power play, Shepherd’s precision in the second over saw Alex Hales lose his wicket, putting Jamaica at 23 for 1.
Brandon King, displaying his mastery at Providence, notched a half-century with ten fours and a six. However, his departure at 75 for 2 marked a turning point. From the 10th to the 15th overs, the Warriors’ bowlers tightened their grip, allowing only 31 runs and claiming the crucial wicket of Imad Wasim.
Despite a late surge by Fabian Allen (21 from 14) and Raymon Reifer (20 from 14), Jamaica concluded their innings at 152 for 5.
In response, the Warriors’ opening pair, Matthew Nandu and Saim Ayub, cautiously laid the foundation before accelerating with a flurry of boundaries. Ayub, in particular, displayed exceptional prowess, smashing five sixes and five fours on his way to an explosive 85 from 52 balls.
Although Nandu departed after contributing 37 runs, Ayub’s towering display put his team firmly on course for victory. Shai Hope and Odean Smith sealed the chase, securing a comprehensive 7-wicket win for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.
With three games remaining, the Warriors now lead the standings.
Their next challenge awaits as they face the St Lucia Kings at the same venue on Thursday evening.