KINGSTON, Jamaica -Defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs slumped to an embarrassing nine-wicket defeat to Guyana Amazon Warriors in what was a poor display of bowling in the 28th match of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Twenty20 tournament and the final home game last night at Sabina Park.

After posting an under-par 149-7, the Tallawahs seamers were put to the task, as Jamaican wicketkeeper/batsman Chadwick Walton laced an unbeaten 84 from 40 deliveries to lead the Warriors to 150-1 in just 10.3 overs.

Walton, who was drafted from the Tallawahs by the Warriors this season, hammered eight boundaries and six sixes in a record second wicket stand of 135 from 65 balls with New Zealand wicketkeeper/batsman Luke Ronchi, who made 55 from 29 balls. Ronchi’s knock included four boundaries and three sixes.

Oshane Thomas picked up the lone wicket to end with 1-32.

Despite the loss, the two-time champions remain in second on 12 points, but will be waiting with bated breath to see if third-placed St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, who are currently in third on 11 points, win their last encounter.

The top two teams will get two chances at making the final, while the loser of the third and fourth place play-off will be eliminated.

The win for the Amazon Warriors saw them into the play-offs in fourth place on 10 points.

Trinbago Knight Riders lead with 16 points.

Sherdon Cowan