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On this day, 35 years ago, the Leeward Islands cricket team etched their names in history by capturing their maiden Red Stripe Cup title. The victory in 1990 was a defining moment for Leeward Islands cricket, marking their dominance in what was then a globally respected, fiercely competitive regional four-day first-class competition.

Under the leadership of the legendary Sir Vivian Richards and later Richie Richardson, who took over after Richards was injured, the Leewards stamped their authority on the tournament by winning every match—a feat accomplished only once before in the modern era, by Barbados in the 1966 Shell Shield.

A Season of Dominance

The Leewards’ campaign was a masterclass in all-round cricketing excellence. The squad boasted an enviable mix of legendary figures, experienced campaigners, and rising stars. Among the unsung heroes was allrounder Eldine Baptiste, who led the bowling attack with 26 wickets at an impressive average of 17. Wicketkeeper-batsman Livingstone Harris provided stability with the bat, accumulating 250 runs at an average of 50.

The team also featured future West Indies greats such as Curtly Ambrose, Keith Arthurton, Stuart Williams, and Winston Benjamin, alongside stalwarts like Noel Guishard, Luther Kelly, and Ralston Otto. Their combined efforts ensured a flawless championship run.

Championship-Winning Squad

• Viv Richards (captain)
• Richie Richardson (stand-in captain)
• Eldine Baptiste (vice-captain)
• Livingstone Harris
• Noel Guishard
• Winston Benjamin
• Stuart Williams
• Keith Arthurton
• Luther Kelly
• Curtly Ambrose
• Ralston Otto
• Kenny Benjamin
• Hamish Anthony
• Recaldo Bassue
• Team Manager- Richard Skerritt

Match Results – The Road to Glory

✅ Beat Barbados by 7 wickets at Kensington Oval
✅ Beat Guyana by 187 runs at Warner Park
✅ Beat Trinidad and Tobago by 8 wickets at Queen’s Park Oval
✅ Beat Windwards by an innings and 15 runs at Antigua Recreation Ground
✅ Beat Jamaica by 3 wickets at Sabina Park

This historic triumph not only solidified the Leeward Islands as a cricketing powerhouse but also showcased the depth of talent in the region. Their perfect season remains one of the greatest achievements in the history of Caribbean cricket, a testament to skill, determination, and teamwork.