The Preeminent Team in West Indies First-Class Cricket History

The year 1990 marked a watershed moment for Leeward Islands cricket, forever etching their name in Caribbean sporting history. Thirty-five years ago, they achieved the unprecedented feat of a clean sweep in the Red Stripe Cup, the premier regional four-day first-class cricket competition, a tournament revered globally for its intense competition and high quality of play. This extraordinary accomplishment mirrored the Barbados team’s similar dominance in the 1966 Shell Shield, solidifying the Leewards’ status as a force to be reckoned with in West Indies cricket. Their triumph resonated as a testament to exceptional teamwork, strategic brilliance, and the individual brilliance of a squad brimming with both established stars and emerging talent.

The Leeward Islands’ campaign was a symphony of coordinated cricketing prowess. Their success wasn’t built on individual heroics alone, but rather a carefully constructed blend of experience, raw talent, and strategic acumen. Legendary figures like Sir Vivian Richards, initially captaining the side before injury forced him to hand the reins to another icon, Richie Richardson, provided the leadership and inspiration. This leadership was complemented by the solid performances of experienced campaigners like Eldine Baptiste, whose all-round contributions, particularly his 26 wickets at an average of 17, provided a cutting edge to the bowling attack. Livingstone Harris, the wicketkeeper-batsman, offered crucial stability in the middle order, amassing 250 runs at a steady average of 50.

The team’s depth was truly remarkable. Alongside the established names were future West Indies luminaries like Curtly Ambrose, whose raw pace and menacing bounce would later terrorize batsmen worldwide. Keith Arthurton, Stuart Williams, and Winston Benjamin, all destined for greatness in the maroon cap, honed their skills and contributed significantly to the team’s success. Veterans like Noel Guishard, Luther Kelly, and Ralston Otto provided experience and stability, ensuring the younger players had the platform to flourish. This unique blend of seasoned professionals and budding stars created a formidable unit capable of overcoming any challenge.

The Leewards’ dominance wasn’t just about star power; it was a testament to a cohesive unit functioning at peak efficiency. Their journey to the championship was marked by comprehensive victories in each match, showcasing their adaptability and ability to perform consistently across different venues and against varied opposition. They began their campaign with a convincing 7-wicket victory over Barbados at the historic Kensington Oval, a resounding statement of intent. This was followed by a crushing 187-run win against Guyana at Warner Park, demonstrating their ability to dominate on home soil.

Their winning streak continued with an 8-wicket triumph over Trinidad and Tobago at Queen’s Park Oval, a victory that underscored their resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions. They then returned home to inflict an innings and 15-run defeat on the Windward Islands at the Antigua Recreation Ground, showcasing their mastery over all aspects of the game. Finally, they capped off their perfect season with a hard-fought 3-wicket win against Jamaica at Sabina Park, demonstrating their ability to handle pressure and secure victory even in tightly contested matches.

The 1990 Red Stripe Cup triumph was not merely a sporting achievement; it was a cultural milestone for the Leeward Islands. It instilled a sense of pride and unity across the islands, highlighting the power of sport to transcend boundaries and inspire a nation. The victory resonated far beyond the cricket field, becoming a symbol of the region’s potential and a testament to the power of collective effort. The team’s success proved that even a smaller cricketing nation, with the right combination of talent, dedication, and leadership, could conquer giants and achieve greatness.

This historic victory cemented the Leeward Islands’ place as a cricketing powerhouse in the Caribbean. Their undefeated run remains one of the most remarkable achievements in West Indies cricket history, a testament to the exceptional skill, unwavering determination, and seamless teamwork displayed by a truly exceptional squad. The 1990 Red Stripe Cup champions serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and a reminder of the glorious legacy of Leeward Islands cricket. Their achievement continues to resonate, serving as a benchmark for future generations and a symbol of the heights that can be reached through collective effort and unwavering commitment to excellence.