‘We knew we would not leave empty-handed’ - Brooks hails Jamaica’s winning team

Jamaica's senior women's cricket team capped off a stirring campaign in St Vincent by clinching the CG United Super50 Cup, finishing atop the standings with 21 points.

One point made all the difference as they finished just one clear of rivals Windward Islands and Guyana, who registered 20 points from their three matches.

Following a less-than-stellar outing in the T20 competition, the victory was a testament to resilience, unity, and steady improvement after a shaky start, according to head coach Shane Brooks.

"Once we lost the T20, we met as a group, and we decided that we would not leave St Vincent empty-handed," Brooks said. "We knew we had to dig deep, play better, take our chances, and show more application. And as I said, we improved every single game. We are not surprised that we are winners."

Jamaica's path to the title was anything but straightforward. Plagued by injuries throughout the three-week tournament, including a broken toe to a key batter and various knee, back, and finger issues, the squad had to "weather the storm", according to Brooks.

"People were suffering, but we were able to play hard and improve every game. A fit, confident, and well-oiled Jamaica team will always be very, very dangerous."

Brooks highlighted the team's ability to use their extended stay in St Vincent to sharpen skills and build cohesion.

"Over the three weeks, we were gelling as a unit. We had clear objectives, and players understood what was needed to do well in these conditions."

Central to their success was captain Rashada Williams, whose leadership Brooks praised effusively.

Veteran all-rounder Stafanie Taylor also earned plaudits for leading with both bat and ball, alongside several other players who delivered "sterling contributions" throughout the competition.

"As a coach, I'm very proud and elated that the players stuck to the task," Brooks said. "They showed respect, they worked with the plan, they respected the leadership, and they played together as one team."

With an eye to the future, Brooks expressed optimism, noting that roughly 60 per cent of the squad are youngsters.

"Well done, Jamaica. It looks good for the future. With good programmes and longer preparation, we will always be very, very competitive."