SAINT JOHN’S
The West Indies Championship kicks off at the Coolidge Cricket Ground with a high-stakes battle between the Leeward Islands Hurricanes and Trinidad and Tobago Red Force. This opening match starts a vital three-game series that promises to set the tone for the entire 2026 regional season.
The Hurricanes are entering a new era under the leadership of all-rounder Justin Greaves. Stepping into the captaincy for the first time, Greaves described the appointment as a proud milestone. He emphasized that discipline and steady improvement are the keys to success, relying on a mix of veteran guidance and fresh energy. The squad looks bolstered by young talents like Jewel Andrew and Karima Gore, both of whom showed impressive form during recent warm-up fixtures.
On the other side, the Red Force brings a formidable lineup packed with international experience. Captain Joshua Da Silva is wary of the short series format, noting that there is zero room for early mistakes. A major talking point for the visitors is the return of explosive opener Evin Lewis to first-class cricket after a long absence, significantly strengthening their batting order.
History suggests a high-scoring affair, last year’s encounter saw over 1,100 runs in a thrilling draw. With both sides desperate for an early advantage, this clash is expected to be a tactical tug-of-war. Fans are eager to see if the Hurricanes’ new leadership can withstand the seasoned power of the Red Force in what looks to be a classic Caribbean showdown.