Sampson embraces middle-order role as Warriors target playoff security
Quentin Sampson
Quentin Sampson is relishing his return to the middle order as the Guyana Amazon Warriors prepare to begin the home leg of their 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League campaign.
The hard-hitting Guyanese batsman opened the innings on several occasions during the previous season but has been assigned a different role this year as the Warriors seek greater balance throughout their batting line-up.
Sampson said the adjustment has been comfortable since he spent much of his formative years batting in the middle order.
“That’s the position I have always batted in, coming up from junior cricket. It feels simple for me, and I feel more confident because opening the batting is not as easy as people think,” he said.
“I feel that this is my role, and I just want to grasp it.”
Sampson has also enjoyed batting alongside explosive left-hander Shimron Hetmyer, noting that Hetmyer’s calm approach and encouragement have made their partnerships enjoyable.
“I just love batting with Hetty. He makes everything so simple and gives you a lot of encouragement. It’s always a fun time with me and him at the crease,” Sampson related.
The Amazon Warriors return home as the competition’s only unbeaten team, having completed four victories from as many matches on the road.
Sampson believes the Warriors’ impressive start, coupled with the support of the Providence crowd, provides an ideal platform for the team to secure its place in the playoffs.
“It’s a good feeling coming home without losing a game. The boys are pumped, and with the home crowd behind us, we’re up for the challenge,” he declared.
Rather than setting personal statistical targets, Sampson said his focus remains on playing his role and contributing to the team’s continued success.
“I just want to play cricket, and from there, we’ll see how it goes,” he said.
The Warriors will begin their five-match home leg against the Jamaica Kingsmen at the National Stadium, Providence, on Friday from 19:00h.
