The Guyana Amazon Warriors strengthened their hold on first place in the Caribbean Premier League with a six-wicket victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders at Providence on Friday night.

The Warriors restricted the defending champions to 126 for eight before reaching 127 for four in 18.4 overs. It was their eighth victory in nine matches and their second straight win following Tuesday’s heavy defeat to the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons.

The result also ended Trinbago’s title defence. The Knight Riders were eliminated from playoff contention and condemned to a last-place finish.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz led Guyana’s attack with four wickets for 23 runs. His decisive spell began after Trinbago made a promising start, reaching 41 for one inside five overs.

The Bangladesh off-spinner then bowled Colin Munro and Nicholas Pooran with consecutive deliveries. He later removed Jyd Goolie and Sunil Narine as the Knight Riders struggled against Guyana’s spin attack.

Only 36 runs were scored between the fifth and 13th overs, with Trinbago losing four wickets during that period.

Justin Greaves offered the most resistance with 35 from 37 balls. However, Shamar Joseph ended his innings in the 17th over and finished with two wickets for 27 runs.

Kieron Pollard, who entered at number seven, was unable to rescue the innings as Trinbago closed on 126 for eight.

Guyana approached the modest chase cautiously, scoring 35 runs during the powerplay.

The Warriors lost Mavendra Dindyal before Glenn Phillips fell shortly after the fielding restrictions ended. Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer then steadied the innings with a 49-run partnership.

Hetmyer struck 28 before Narine removed him in the 13th over.

Hope remained unbeaten on 42 from 35 deliveries and finished the match in style, striking a four and a six during the 19th over.

Quentin Sampson was unbeaten alongside him as the Warriors completed the chase with eight balls remaining.

Guyana will close out the league stage against the Barbados Tridents at Kensington Oval on Sunday before turning their attention to the playoffs.