By Anas Ahmed 
Gros Islet, August 26, 2025 – Defending champions St Lucia Kings reminded the Caribbean Premier League why they remain a formidable force, chasing down a daunting 203 with 11 balls to spare against Guyana Amazon Warriors. The star of the show was Ackeem Auguste, whose explosive 73 off just 35 deliveries lit up the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and sealed a four-wicket victory.
Warriors Set the Tone
Winning the toss, the Warriors opted to bat first and immediately asserted their authority. Romario Shepherd was in blistering touch, hammering 73 off 34 balls with seven sixes and five fours. His late surge ensured Guyana posted a commanding 202/6 despite disciplined bowling from the Kings.
Iftikhar Ahmed added a composed 33, while cameos from the middle order kept the scoreboard ticking. The Kings’ bowlers had to work hard on a batting-friendly surface, with Keon Gaston (2/57) and Khary Pierre (1/30) among the few to make inroads.
Auguste Turns the Game
In response, the Kings absorbed the early blow of losing Johnson Charles (5) cheaply but quickly regained momentum. Tim Seifert (37 off 24) provided the perfect foil to Auguste as the pair combined for a pulsating powerplay, smashing 86 runs in the first six overs.
Auguste’s knock was a masterclass in controlled aggression, featuring crisp drives, inventive scoops, and towering sixes. His dismissal for 73 with the score on 140 briefly gave the Warriors hope, but the Kings’ middle order ensured calm.
Experience Sees Kings Home
Tim David (25), Aaron Jones (16), and skipper David Wiese (10)* finished the job with professionalism, guiding the champions to 203/6 in 18.1 overs. The win not only gave them bragging rights over a strong Warriors unit but also lifted them to second on the CPL 2025 points table.
For the Warriors, it was a missed opportunity. Despite Shepherd’s brilliance, their bowlers failed to capitalize on breakthroughs, with Gudakesh Motie (2/32) and Jediah Blades (2/35) the only real standouts.
Brief Scores
Guyana Amazon Warriors 202/6 (20 overs): Romario Shepherd 73* (34), Iftikhar Ahmed 33 (27); Keon Gaston 2/57, Khary Pierre 1/30.
St Lucia Kings 203/6 (18.1 overs): Ackeem Auguste 73 (35), Tim Seifert 37 (24); Gudakesh Motie 2/32, Jediah Blades 2/35.
Result: St Lucia Kings won by 4 wickets (with 11 balls remaining).
Player of the Match: Ackeem Auguste (SLK) – 73 off 35 balls.
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