2022 runners-up, Barbados Royals, began the 2023 CPL Women’s League with a statement win over Guyana Amazon Warriors at home in the Kensington Oval last evening.
Batting first, Sophie Devine was the star for the Guyanese franchise, hitting an unbeaten 103 off 64 balls. Suzie Bates and captain Stafanie Taylor contributed 23 and 22 runs to their 166-run total.
In reply, a true team effort from the top and middle got the Royals across the line. Gaby Lewis top-scored with 47, Laura Harris had 30, Erin Burns saw them to victory unbeaten on 29, while 23-a-piece from captain Hayley Matthews and wicketkeeper batter Rashada Williams helped them along the way to a six-wicket victory with just two balls remaining.
The Royals men also won by six wickets – theirs coming against Jamaica Tallawahs.