By Anas Ahmed 
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons soared to the top of the table after a dramatic 8-run victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders in the 7th match of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound.
The clash had everything – early collapses, power hitting, and a tense finish – before Obed McCoy’s brilliance with the ball sealed the game for the home side.
Fabian Allen’s Firepower Rescues Falcons
Put into bat by Nicholas Pooran, the Falcons were reeling at 77/5 by the 14th over. But lower-order powerhouse Fabian Allen produced a blistering counter-attack. His 45 off 20 balls, studded with three fours and three sixes, turned the momentum back in the hosts’ favor.
Imad Wasim anchored with an unbeaten 39 off 27 deliveries, ensuring the Falcons reached a competitive 167/6 in 20 overs.
McCoy Dents Knight Riders’ Chase
Chasing 168, the Knight Riders began aggressively with Colin Munro’s rapid 44 off 18 balls. However, McCoy swung the game with a fiery spell, dismissing both Munro and the dangerous Alex Hales in the same over.
The left-arm quick ended with 4/39 in four overs, rightfully claiming the Player of the Match award.
Pollard’s Late Fight Falls Short
Despite regular wickets, Kieron Pollard kept Knight Riders in the hunt with an unbeaten 43 off 28 balls, smashing seven boundaries. With 14 needed off the final over, Pollard seemed poised for a heroic finish.
But young quick Shamar Springer held his nerve, mixing his lengths cleverly to restrict Pollard. Four off the last ball wasn’t enough, as Trinbago finished on 159/6 in 20 overs, falling just short.
Brief Scores
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons 167/6 (20 overs) Fabian Allen 45 (20), Imad Wasim 39* (27) Usman Tariq 2/37, Nathan Edward 2/56
Trinbago Knight Riders 159/6 (20 overs) Colin Munro 44 (18), Kieron Pollard 43* (28) Obed McCoy 4/39, Shakib Al Hasan 1/2
Result: Falcons won by 8 runs
Player of the Match: Obed McCoy (4/39)
Zainab Shafiq 
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