The Barbados Royals reinforced their status as the team to beat in the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL), cruising to a comprehensive 59-run victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders on Wednesday.
The win, built on a complete team performance and crowned by a stunning bowling display from Chamari Athapaththu, solidified the defending champions’ position at the top of the table.
Sent in to bat first after Knight Riders captain Chinelle Henry won the toss, the Royals posted a competitive 137 for 6 on a fresh Providence Stadium pitch.
The innings was anchored by a superb knock from powerful left-hander Qiana Joseph, who top-scored with a composed 63 from 52 balls.
She shared a crucial 59-run opening stand with Athapaththu, who chipped in with 14 off 12 balls to provide a solid platform.
The Knight Riders’ bowlers, led by a spirited effort from Deandra Dottin, fought back to prevent a late onslaught. Dottin clean bowled Courtney Webb and captain Henry and added a run-out of Georgia Redmayne to her tally.
A late flurry from Kycia Knight, who struck four boundaries in her unbeaten 33, provided vital impetus to push the Royals past the 130-run mark.
In response, the Trinbago Knight Riders’ chase never found its footing. Their innings collapsed dramatically as they were skittled for a meagre 78 in just over 15 overs. Only opener Lizelle Lee offered any significant resistance with a patient unbeaten 39 off 44 balls.
The destruction was masterminded by Sri Lankan superstar Chamari Athapaththu. After contributing with the bat, her right-arm off-spin decimated the Knight Riders’ batting line-up.
She delivered a mesmerising spell, claiming four wickets for just seven runs in three overs, to deservedly claim the Player of the Match award.
She was ably supported by fellow off-spinner Sheneta Grimmond, who struck twice in two balls in the second over to set the tone for the collapse.
The heavy defeat leaves the Knight Riders rooted to the bottom of the table, still searching for their first win after two matches.
(CMC)
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