Barbados Tridents have pulled off a major coup by drafting Gudakesh Motie for the 2026 edition of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League.
The left-arm spinner from Guyana, has been an excellent performer in previous CPL tournaments and also in the international stage for West Indies. He is part of the local and regional players listed by the organisers in the official unveiling which was done online. The event attracted great interest around the region, and captured the attention of observers around the world.
Motie will be joined by fellow West Indies Men’s T20 World Cup players, Brandon King, the stylish top-order batsman; and Sherfane Rutherford, the left-handed power-hitter who can be destructive in the middle order.
New franchise
Meanwhile, they have lost the services of Rovman Powell, who was captain for the last two seasons. He has returned to his homeland and will captain the Jamaica Kingsmen – the newest franchise among the seven teams in the competition.
The Tridents earlier this week returned to the name in a switch from the Royals. The change came about through a new partnership between the Government of Barbados and the Royals Group as they formed the “One Barbados” alliance.
They have also picked several young hopefuls, among them left-arm fast bowler Ramon Simmonds, seam bowler Johann Layne; and leg-spinner Zishan Motara who made their debuts for the West Indies last year. One newcomer is Zachary Carter, the powerfully built left-hander opener. The teenager was a stand-out for West Indies at the ICC Under 19 World Cup earlier this year in southern Africa.
The Tridents have also kept faith with Rivaldo Clarke, the highly-touted wicket-keeper/batsman. Clarke showcased his brilliance recently with a career-best century for West Indies Academy in the exhibition four-day first-class match against Guyana Harpy Eagles.
Motie said he is looking forward to his new team and also to play at Kensington Oval. He spoke to News Room Sport from Georgetown, Guyana. Since making his CPL debut for the Amazon Warriors in 2021, the 31-year-old has been an integral cog in their bowling wheel, claiming 64 wickets across 53 appearances. He was a vital component of the historic squad that broke Guyana’s long-standing jinx to lift their maiden CPL silverware in 2023.
“Firstly, I want to thank the Guyana Amazon Warriors organisation for backing me at the start of my CPL journey and for the memories and experiences over the years. A special ‘thank you’ as well to all the Amazon Warriors fans for their continued love and support throughout my journey. I love you guys,” Motie said.
New chapter
“Being drafted by the Barbados franchise is a new chapter in my career, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead. My focus remains on contributing in every way possible, continuing to grow as a player, and helping the team compete for the title. I’m looking forward to meeting the players, staff, and fans, and giving my best throughout the tournament.”
Meanwhile, once again this year, the island’s highest profile players will be playing away from home. Jason Holder and Kyle Myers have again signed for St Kitts and Nevis patriots; Roston Chase and Matthews Forde are in the St Lucia Kings squad and Shai Hope will remain with Guyana Amazon Warriors.
The tournament bowls off on August 7, at Arnos Vale in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Barbados will have their first match against newcomers Jamaica on August 11, at Sabina Park. The first home match at Kensington Oval for the Tridents will be on September 5, against Trinbago Knight Riders.
The playoffs and finals will also be played at Kensington Oval from Wednesday, September 16, to Sunday September 20.
TRIDENT PLAYERS UNVEILED: Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie, Brandon King, Zachary Carter, Kadeem Alleyne, Damon Simmonds, Shadrack Descarte, Rivaldo Clarke, Zishan Motara.
The post Tridents go with Motie appeared first on nationnews.com.
