The Shemaine Campbelle-led Guyana Amazon Warriors clinched a low-scoring thriller by 6 runs against the Deandra Dottin-led Trinbago Knight Riders in the tournament opener of the ongoing 4th edition of the WCPL at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on 6th September 2025.
Molly Penfold’s sensational catch to dismiss Jess Jonassen (22 off 27 balls) eventually turned out to be the defining moment. This crucial breakthrough, orchestrated in the 12th over of the run chase by Karishma Ramharack, marked a pivotal juncture for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.
The 12th over witnessed Jess Jonassen, a key top-order batter for the Trinbago Knight Riders, looking set until Karishma Ramharack found the perfect delivery that forced an aerial shot toward the deep field. Molly Penfold, stationed near the boundary, demonstrated extraordinary composure and athleticism, tracking the ball’s trajectory against immense pressure.
What set Penfold’s catch apart was not only her clean take but her spatial awareness near the boundary rope. As she caught the ball, the momentum threatened to carry her over the rope, but she executed a deft move: Penfold released the ball just before crossing the boundary, regaining her balance, and then coming back in to complete the dismissal without stepping on or over the rope. The meticulous execution underlined Penfold’s fielding prowess and cool headedness, instantly becoming a highlight.
The commentators captured the drama: “Well, this is a big hit, but there is a fielder in the deep. Oh, what a good catch. Outstanding stuff.” They recognised that Penfold not only judged the catch well but also negotiated the boundary challenge expertly: “She loses her balance, she gets rid of it. Very, very good work.” Penfold’s performance ensured that Jonassen’s innings ended at 22, giving the Warriors their second breakthrough and shifting momentum in their favour.
The Warriors slipped from 65/2 (11.5) after Jess Jonassen’s dismissal to 123/9 (20), falling just 6 short of the required. Karishma Ramharack’s wicket, aided by Penfold’s athleticism, disrupted the Trinbago Knight Riders’ batting rhythm and elevated the standard of fielding in the ongoing season.
Fielding brilliance like these defines the spirit and spectacle of the WCPL, exemplifying the skill level in women’s franchise cricket. As the tournament progresses, such moments will be crucial for teams seeking the edge in high-pressure games.
