Chasing 167, the Guyana Rainforest Rangers appeared poised for victory after a blazing partnership between Kevlon Anderson (58 off 43 balls) and Adrian Sukhwa (57 off 43 balls), who combined for a 107-run stand in just 11.2 overs to put Guyana in a commanding position at 120-1 in the 15th over.

However, a dramatic collapse ensued, and the Rangers were restricted to 141-9 in their 20 overs in their opening match of the West Indies Breakout T20 League at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Leg-spinner Darel Cyrus was the chief destroyer for the Windward Islands Infernos, returning impressive figures of 4-37 from four overs, including crucial wickets during the late stages of the innings.

Cyrus’s tight spell turned the game on its head.

Earlier, the Infernos’ innings was stifled early, falling to 38-4 before captain Alick Athanaze’s exceptional 91* off 57 balls, featuring seven sixes and five fours, while Dillon Douglas contributed a valuable 28 from 32 balls as Windward Islands sealed the victory comfortably.

The Rangers’ inability to close out their innings cost them dearly, as their batting unit faltered in the death overs, handing Windward Islands an opening win in the league.

Guyana now turns its focus to Saturday’s clash with Trinidad and Tobago Legions at 19:00h.

FULL SCORECARD: https://matchcentre.windiescricket.com/match/2fef47b0-b5d6-4933-a374-70b8629bd696/2