By Samuel Peters
The Antigua and Barbuda Senior Men’s Cricket Team emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against hosts St Kitts on Friday at Warner Park.
The match, part of the Leeward Islands Cricket Board Senior Men’s 50 Overs Tournament, saw Antigua and Barbuda clinch a narrow 14-run victory.
St Kitts won the toss and elected to bowl, but Antigua and Barbuda got off to a strong start with an opening partnership of 77 runs. Tyrone Williams Jr contributed 35 before the introduction of St Kitts’ captain Terence Warde, who slowed the scoring rate, reducing the visitors to 127 for three by the 27th over.
The game’s momentum shifted dramatically when Jewel Andrew arrived at the crease. After a cautious start, Andrew unleashed a barrage of boundaries, including four consecutive sixes off Warde. His explosive 73 off 35 balls, combined with Kadeem Henry’s solid 78, propelled Antigua and Barbuda to a commanding position. Deran Benta’s late flourish helped the team post a formidable total of 314 for eight in their allotted 50 overs.
St Kitts’ chase began at a blistering pace, with Mikyle Louis taking on Kelvin Pitman. However, Glenton Williams and Javier Spencer applied pressure, dismissing Larry Audain and Terence Warde cheaply. Jaleel Clarke, a Leeward Islands draft pick, then steadied the innings with a classy knock.
Louis’ dismissal for 76 brought Cameron Pennyfeather to the crease, and he formed a crucial 88-run partnership with Clarke. With the score at 212 for four and 16 overs remaining, St Kitts seemed poised for victory. However, Antigua and Barbuda’s bowlers held their nerve. Henry’s reintroduction to the attack proved decisive, as he claimed the crucial wicket of Clarke for 105.
Despite a spirited effort from the tail, St Kitts fell short, bowled out for 300 in the 47th over. The small home crowd was left disappointed as Antigua and Barbuda secured the win by 14 runs.
Kadeem Henry was named both Man of the Match and Player of the Tournament for his all-round performances, capping a memorable victory for the Antigua and Barbuda team.