A composed, unbeaten half-century from Shemaine Campbelle guided Guyana Women to a four-wicket victory over Jamaica Women in the ninth match of the T20 Blaze here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field on Saturday.
After restricting Jamaica to 87 for nine, Guyana, despite losing six wickets, successfully chased down the modest target with 27 balls to spare.
Jamaica, asked to take the first strike, was stifled by a disciplined Guyanese bowling attack and failed to build momentum.
The Shane Brooks-coached side just could not put any partnerships together after the early loss of veteran Chedean Nation, who went lbw in the second over for a duck.
Veteran all-rounder Stafanie Taylor had to chalk up yet another rescue mission with the bat, as she top-scored with a patient 24, while captain Rashada Williams contributed 23. But no other batter could break the shackles imposed by the Guyana spin bowlers.
Off-spin was the order of the day, as Ashnimi Munisar was the chief destroyer, claiming 3 for 11, while Plaffiana Millington chipped in with 2-11 and Sheneta Grimmond 2-16, providing crucial support.
In reply, Guyana’s chase hit early turbulence, losing both openers Realeanna and Sheneta Grimmond early, to be 34 for 2. Seamer Kate Wilmott with 2-17 and Nation 2-25 struck blows to create a flutter of hope for Jamaica, as Guyana tethered at 55 for 5 and then 60 for 6.
However, Campbelle, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter, stood firm amidst the carnage. Displaying impeccable shot selection and calm leadership, she anchored the innings, rotating the strike and punishing the loose deliveries.
Her unbeaten 50 from 42 balls with eight fours was the bedrock of the chase. She found a willing partner in Latoya Williams with 9 not out for an unbroken 28-run seventh-wicket stand that saw Guyana home comfortably to 88 for 6 in just 15.3 overs. (CMC)
