The Anguilla National Cricket Team has etched its name in regional history on June 8th 2025. The team completed the inaugural Leeward Islands Cricket Board (LICB) T20 Festival with a flawless 6–0 campaign to win the tournament. With powerful performances across batting, bowling, and fielding, the men in orange not only claimed the championship title but also swept all major individual awards.
A Perfect Start – The campaign opened with a solid victory over the Combined Virgin Islands. Chesney Hughes led the chase with an unbeaten 52, after six bowlers combined to hold the opposition to 132 runs. The win set a confident tone for what would become an unstoppable tournament run.
Momentum Builds Under the Lights – Next, Anguilla faced St. Kitts under the lights at Sir Viv Richards Stadium. Jahmar Hamilton shined with 62 at the top of the order, supported by sharp fielding—three run-outs and five catches. Anguilla posted 157/4 and held off a late challenge to win by 13 runs.
Statement Win Against Antigua – In a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash with Antigua, Hamilton again delivered with a brisk 52. Key partnerships from Deon Burton and Jaidel Richardson lifted the total to 157. The bowlers, led by Richardson, Andros “Simba” Bowens, and Shivnarine Benjamin, took wickets at regular intervals to seal an 11-run win.
Fireworks Against Nevis – Against Nevis, Hamilton flirted with a century, scoring 96 runs off 60 balls. His 103-run partnership with captain Dimitri Adams helped set a commanding 185/4. Nevis responded aggressively, but the now-familiar six-man bowling rotation and another 3-wicket haul from Bowens closed out the match and maintained the perfect record.
Clinching a Spot in the Final – The team’s fifth win came against the Combined Islands (Montserrat and St. Maarten). With openers failing for the first time, Adams led from the front with 77 runs. The bowling unit once again held their nerve, defending 152 and clinching a narrow 9-run victory—booking Anguilla’s place in the finals.
Sealing the Championship – In the championship showdown, Hughes blazed 59 runs, followed by a 100-run partnership between Hamilton (69) and Adams (55*). Anguilla posted a tournament-high 195/3. Antigua battled bravely, but standout bowling performances from Richardson (3 wickets), Mark Gokarran (2), and Benjamin (2) wrapped up the win, securing Anguilla’s sixth consecutive victory and the title.
“This is for Anguilla— all the supporters and all the fans,” said Captain Dimitri Adams. “All you need in life is belief. Believe in yourself and back yourself and you can get places— One love.”
Individual Honours Sweep – Anguilla’s dominance extended beyond the team trophy:
• Jahmar Hamilton: Best Batsman & Tournament MVP – 313 runs at an average of 52
• Deon “Quarter” Burton: Best Wicketkeeper – 8 dismissals (4 catches, 4 stumpings)
• Masimba “Simba” Bowens: Co-Leading Wicket-Taker – 13 wickets in 6 matches
Gratitude and Continued Support – Coach Terry Adams, Manager Mr. Rey, and the Anguilla Cricket Association received high praise for their leadership. The team expressed sincere thanks to all sponsors who helped make the journey possible—providing support with travel, accommodation, excursions, and celebrations honoring their triumphant return.
Fans wishing to support the team or learn more about their journey are encouraged to follow the Anguilla Cricket Association Facebook page for updates, highlights, and future cricket news.
