Following their victory over Antigua and Barbuda in the final of the Leeward Islands T20 Festival, Anguilla’s national cricket team returned home to a heroes’ welcome.
The team was officially welcomed at the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal on 9 June, where they were greeted by the premier, government ministers, community members and supporters.
They were then treated to a reception in the VIP arrivals room.
In a statement the Department of Sports congratulated the team on what it called a “well-deserved victory”.
“Going into this competition not fully prepared, you relied on talent, skills and belief which led you to victory,” it read.
“With grace and pride you went unbeaten throughout the tournament and in grand style and flair, overcame the Antigua team to win and be crowned Champions of the T20 Festival.”
Anguilla went undefeated throughout the tournament, winning all six games and clinching the title with a commanding 21-run victory in the final in Antigua on 8 June.
They posted an imposing total of 195 for three against Antigua and Barbuda, who were bowled out for 174 in reply.
Captain Dimitri Adams led from the front, setting the tone with the bat and later taking two wickets for 50 runs.
Chesney Hughes provided early momentum with a blistering 59 off 29 balls, departing in the ninth over with the score at 82.
Adams then joined Jahmar Hamilton at the crease, and the pair built a crucial 100-run partnership over the next 10 overs.
Hamilton anchored the innings with a composed 69 off 57 deliveries, while Adams added a rapid 55 not out from just 30 balls to help seal a dominant total.
As well as taking home the trophy, the championship-winning squad also swept up several of the individual awards of the tournament.
Jahmar Hamilton was named both best batsman and most valuable player, amassing an impressive 313 runs at an average of 52 per match.
Deon ‘Quarter’ Burton claimed best wicketkeeper honours, finishing with eight dismissals – four catches and four stumpings.
Masimba Bowens, tied as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker and took home the award with 13 wickets across six matches.
