By Anas Ahmed 
Basseterre, August 15, 2025 – The Guyana Amazon Warriors opened their CPL 2025 campaign with a commanding display, chasing down St Kitts & Nevis Patriots’ total of 153/8 to seal a five-wicket win with 16 balls to spare. The night belonged to Ben McDermott, whose explosive 75 off 39 balls on debut ensured the Warriors started the tournament on top.
Patriots Post a Competitive Total
Warriors captain Imran Tahir opted to bowl first after winning the toss in conditions affected by light weather. The Patriots relied heavily on opener Andre Fletcher, who struck a fluent 60 off 41 balls, keeping the scoreboard moving despite regular breakthroughs.
Jyd Goolie added late momentum with an unbeaten 24 from 15 deliveries, lifting the total to 153/8. The Warriors’ attack was led by Dwaine Pretorius, who claimed 3/43, while Tahir himself chipped in with 2/29, using all his experience to keep the hosts under control.
McDermott’s Masterclass on Debut
In reply, the Warriors’ chase was powered by Ben McDermott’s electric strokeplay. The Australian lit up Warner Park with ten boundaries and four sixes, reaching his maiden CPL fifty in style. His innings turned the contest decisively in the visitors’ favor.
Partnering with Shai Hope, McDermott put on a commanding 114-run stand for the second wicket. Hope, calm and composed, finished the job with 56 not out from 39 balls, ensuring no late slip-ups.
A key turning point came when Naseem Shah spilled a return catch off McDermott when he was on 32, right after the opener had plundered 19 runs in the previous over. It proved costly, as McDermott went on to dominate the chase.
Warriors Extend Winning Run Over Patriots
This victory marked the Warriors’ fifth successive win over the Patriots, reinforcing their dominance in recent meetings. It also underlined their reputation as one of the most consistent franchises in CPL history.
With McDermott’s dream debut and Hope’s reliability, the Warriors announced themselves as early contenders for another title run, climbing straight to the top of the table.
Brief Scores
St Kitts & Nevis Patriots – 153/8 in 20 overs (Andre Fletcher 60 off 41, Jyd Goolie 24* off 15; Dwaine Pretorius 3/43, Imran Tahir 2/29)
Guyana Amazon Warriors – 154/5 in 17.2 overs (Ben McDermott 75 off 39, Shai Hope 56* off 39; Abbas Afridi 2/24, Naseem Shah 1/19)
Result – Guyana Amazon Warriors won by 5 wickets with 16 balls remaining
Player of the Match – Ben McDermott (Guyana Amazon Warriors)
Zainab Shafiq