Walton sees redemption in WCL title

Jamaican Chadwick Walton says the West Indies Champions used the disappointment of last season’s World Championship of Legends (WCL) campaign as motivation to reclaim their place among cricket’s elite.

In a display of dominance, the Caribbean side defeated the England Champions by nine wickets in the World Championship of Legends 2026 final at Sharjah Cricket Stadium at the weekend.

After restricting England to 159-7 from their 20 overs, the West Indies produced a blistering batting performance, chasing down the target in just 17 overs to emphatically seal the title and erase memories of last year’s disappointing showing.

A disciplined bowling effort, led by Dwayne Bravo, laid the platform for victory, with the all-rounder earning Player of the Match honours for his figures of 3-21.

The run chase was then powered by opener Lendl Simmons and the tournament’s standout performer, Chadwick Walton. The pair made light work of the England bowling attack, with Walton capping a phenomenal tournament by finishing as Player of the Series with 342 runs.

Speaking after the match, an elated Walton emphasised the team’s sense of redemption.

“Well, the guys said that we needed this win,” Walton said. “Last year we didn’t do so well, so this year we decided that we’re coming off of this one very happy.”

Speaking on his current form, Walton credited the local JCA Super50 tournament for helping him get into shape.

“I was playing some local 50-over cricket back home for Melbourne CC, so I came here with some form and all I had to do is just play my natural game, and I did just that.”

Captain Chris Gayle, who led the side with characteristic calm, was full of praise for his teammates.

In his post-match press conference, the ‘Universe Boss’ described the title-winning effort as a collective achievement.

“Absolutely, man. I’m so happy for the guys. Remarkable championship-winning team,” Gayle said. “So England played a very good game. I want to give England a big shout-out as well. They had a tremendous tournament. Thanks to my guys, DJ Bravo, vice-captain. Chadwick Walton had a phenomenal tournament as well.”

Despite the star power in the batting line-up, Gayle was quick to credit the bowlers for setting up the victory.

“But credit got to go to the bowlers, though. I think they really and truly set it up for us. Bowlers were great.”

Gayle also reflected on the quality of the competition, noting that the tournament featured high-calibre cricket, including a strong South African side that was eliminated by England in the semi-finals.

However, he reserved special praise for a legendary figure who played a crucial role both behind the scenes and on the field: Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

The former West Indies stalwart, serving as player-coach, delivered a remarkable innings in the semi-final against Australia to help the team reach the final.

“It’s good to see him on the field as well. It’s fantastic. He’s the player-coach for our team as well,” Gayle added. “He was superb, man. He’s actually fitting well with the group. So glad to have a man like Shiv around, and I know we may ask him to put on his pads for next season as well.”