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Debutant Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell believes the loss of a cluster of wickets at the top of the batting order was the main reason for the team's 84-run defeat to Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in the opening round of the WICB/NAGICO Super50 Tournament at the Queen's Park Oval on Thursday.

The Scorpions, having bowled out Trinidad for 222 off 47.2 overs, could only manage 137 off 42.5 in their turn at the bat.

"Losing four of your main batsmen in quick succession in any game, is going to put you under pressure," said Campbell.

"We tried to rebound at one stage as I thought (Brandon) King and (Aldaine) Thomas looked assured and positive when they were together.

"However, following the loss of Thomas, the situation changed."

King, batting at number six, was the innings' leading runs scorer with 26, with AndrE McCarthy, 21, and opener Trevon Griffith, 20, the next best scorers.

Seamer Marlon Richards, five for 36, led the way for the Red Force as they began their title defence.

20 RUNSTOOMANY

Campbell, in looking at the team's performance in the field, said the hosts, who were at one stage hobbling at 119 for six, got about 20 runs too many.

Leg-spinner Damion Jacobs led the bowling with three for 40 off his maximum 10 overs, while there were two wickets apiece for fellow spinners Nikita Miller and part-timer Tamar Lambert.

"We bowled well, but we should have restricted them to about 20 runs less," he said.

Jamaica will next face guest team ICC Americas today in St Augustine.

BARBADOSVICTORS

The Americas, a compilation of players for ICC affiliate countries of the region, lost by four wickets to Barbados Pride in their opener. They made 183 to which Barbados replied with 184 for six.