Guyana Secures Historic First Women’s Regional T20 Championship

The 2025 Cricket West Indies Women’s T20 Blaze culminated in a dramatic Super Over finish, with Guyana emerging victorious against Jamaica at the Arnos Vale Stadium. Both teams ended their innings tied at 122 for 5, setting the stage for a tense decider. Guyana, after posting a modest 8 runs in their Super Over, showcased their mettle through Nyia Latchman’s exceptional bowling. Latchman restricted Jamaica to a mere 3 runs, securing Guyana’s first-ever regional women’s T20 title and igniting jubilant celebrations. This hard-fought victory marked a historic moment for Guyanese women’s cricket.

Guyana’s path to the championship was paved with consistent performances throughout the tournament. They topped the preliminary round standings with four wins out of five matches. Their campaign began with a convincing seven-wicket victory over the Leeward Islands, followed by another commanding performance against the Windward Islands in a rain-affected match. A four-wicket win against Barbados further solidified their dominance, which peaked with a crushing defeat of Trinidad & Tobago. Bowling out Trinidad & Tobago for a mere 35, the lowest total of the tournament, Guyana chased down the target in a lightning-fast 6.3 overs. Their only stumble came against Jamaica in the final preliminary match, a loss that fueled Jamaica’s confidence heading into the final showdown.

Jamaica’s journey to the final was marked by fluctuating fortunes. After a comfortable opening win against the Windward Islands, they suffered consecutive defeats to Trinidad & Tobago and the Leeward Islands, placing their tournament hopes in jeopardy. However, a resurgent Jamaica, led by Chinelle Henry’s historic century – the first in the tournament’s history – against Barbados, secured a commanding 62-run victory. Carrying this momentum, they defeated the previously unbeaten Guyana in their final preliminary match, booking their spot in the final and setting up a rematch that promised high drama.

The final itself was a captivating contest. Jamaica, batting first, set a competitive target of 122-5, with notable contributions from Chedean Nations (35), Abigail Bryce (32), and Jodian Morgan (27). Guyana’s captain, Shemaine Campbelle, anchored their chase with a well-constructed 54, supported by Realeanna Grimmond’s crucial 46. The tension escalated as Campbelle was run out with just four runs required from two balls, leaving the match poised for the Super Over climax.

Beyond the finalists, the tournament witnessed some commendable performances from other teams. Both Windward Islands and Leeward Islands concluded with respectable 3-2 records. The Leeward Islands’ campaign was highlighted by Qiana Joseph’s explosive 43 not out against Jamaica in a truncated rain-affected match. Trinidad & Tobago, despite a promising start with two wins, faltered in the latter stages, finishing with a 2-3 record. Barbados, unfortunately, endured a winless tournament.

The 2025 Women’s T20 Blaze showcased the burgeoning talent and competitive spirit of women’s cricket in the Caribbean. Individual brilliance and closely fought matches captivated fans and stakeholders alike. However, the tournament ultimately belonged to Guyana. Their maiden title, secured in such thrilling fashion, underscored their resilience, teamwork, and ability to perform under pressure, culminating in a historic victory that will be etched in the annals of Caribbean women’s cricket. Guyana’s triumph served as a testament to the growing depth and competitiveness of the women’s game in the region.