compiled by Spectator Sports
Determination, power, and resilience define Shawnisha Hector. At 26, she has developed into one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most impactful cricketers, known for her ability to change the course of a match with both bat and ball. As a dynamic all-rounder competing at regional and international levels, Shawnisha has consistently proven herself to be anexcellent athlete.
Her performances in the 2025 West Indies Women’s T20 Blaze Regional Tournament showcased her match-winning capabilities. She delivered two outstanding all-around performances, earning Player of the Match honors. In one fixture against Barbados Women, she scored a blistering 40 off just 24 balls, striking four 4s and two 6s, and also claimed two wickets for 15 runs in four disciplined overs. In another dominant display, she powered to 40 off 26 balls, hitting four 4s and three 6s, and followed up with a crucial wicket while conceding only 19 runs in four overs. Her aggressive batting also saw her record the second-highest number of sixes in the tournament, underscoring her reputation as a powerful striker of the ball.
Shawnisha also made her mark internationally in the Cricket Tasmania Premier League Women’s First Grade competition. She produced a brilliant unbeaten 66 from 42 balls against New Town, striking nine 4s and a 6, and followed it with a composed 53 from 49 balls against GN Raiders, including six 4s and two 6s. These performances showcased her adaptability in different competitive environments.
Despite these achievements, her journey last year was far from easy. Shortly after returning from Tasmania, Shawnisha suffered a torn ACL, a setback that tested her physically and mentally. The injury required significant rest and rehabilitation, and she had to stop bowling to allow her knee to recover properly. During this period, her fitness levels declined, and her self-confidence was challenged. However, through discipline, strengthening work, and the support of her team, she committed to rebuilding step by step.
The comeback proved to be powerful. After recovering, she returned to competition and immediately made an impact, earning two Player of the Match awards through complete all-around performances. Regaining her confidence, she returned home to continue improving her fitness and sharpening her skills. Her hard work paid off when she was called up as a replacement player for the West Indies Women’s T20 team against South Africa. Making her debut at the T20 International level and contributing to a winning squad that secured a home series victory was a defining milestone in her career. She completed two matches in the series, proudly representing her region on the international stage.
Soon after, she was drafted into the Women’s Caribbean Premier League to represent the Trinbago Knight Riders Women. The opportunity was both exciting and rewarding, especially after the adversity she had faced earlier in the year. Being selected for such a prestigious franchise league was confirmation that her resilience, dedication, and hard work had not gone unnoticed.
Winning the Athlete of the Year award in Women’s Cricket is a tremendous honour for Shawnisha, a recognition of her perseverance and excellence. Winning the Sportswoman of the Year would symbolise even more, reflecting her dedication, career achievements, and the relentless effort she has poured into her sport despite setbacks.
Although the year began with injury, it transformed into one of growth, resilience, and triumph. Shawnisha Hector’s story is one of determination, courage, and belief. From rehabilitation to international debut, she has proven that setbacks do not define a career.