Ben McDermott, Iftikhar Ahmed join GAW squad for 2025 CPL edition

With the highly anticipated Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) set to bowl off on August 14, the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) have made strategic adjustments to their squad in light of an injury setback and a short-term player absence.
New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
Phillips, known for his explosive batting and versatility with the ball, was expected to play a crucial role in the Warriors’ campaign. His absence is a significant blow to the side, but GAW have acted swiftly to reinforce their line-up.

In his place, the franchise has signed Ben McDermott, a powerful top-order batsman from Australia. McDermott is coming off a strong performance with the Hobart Hurricanes in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSLT20), where he showcased his destructive hitting and composure under pressure.
With 2,782 runs in 99 Big Bash League (BBL) innings at an impressive strike rate of 138.41, including a career-best 127, McDermott brings both experience and firepower to the Warriors’ batting unit.
In addition to McDermott’s inclusion, the Warriors have made a temporary replacement to cover for the absence of Hassan Khan, who will be unavailable for the team’s first three matches. Stepping in is seasoned Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed.
Iftikhar is no stranger to the CPL atmosphere and brings a wealth of experience across T20 leagues worldwide. He recently represented the Rangpur Riders in the Guyana Super League, where he impressed with his consistent performances.
A dynamic middle-order batter and capable off-spinner, Iftikhar is especially known for his aggressive stroke play, boasting a career strike rate of 130 in international T20s. His presence will add much-needed depth and balance to the squad during Khan’s brief absence.
The updated Guyana Amazon Warriors squad for CPL 2024 is as follows: Imran Tahir (Captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Shai Hope, Ben McDermott, Gudakesh Motie, Moeen Ali, Shamar Joseph, Keemo Paul, Dwaine Pretorius, Shamar Brooks, Kemol Savoury, Hassan Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Jediah Blades, Kevlon Anderson, Quentin Sampson, and Riyad Latif.
With the CPL drawing closer, the Warriors will be eager to build early momentum and capitalise on the strength of their revised squad. The blend of seasoned internationals and emerging local talent positions them as strong contenders for this year’s title.