By Anas Ahmed 
Stags Bounce Back with Crucial Win Over Hurricanes in GSL 2025 Showdown
After a shaky start to their Global Super League (GSL) 2025 campaign, Central Stags roared back into contention with a 16-run victory over Hobart Hurricanes XI in an electric contest at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.
Having lost their opening two matches, this clash was do-or-die for the Stags — and they delivered when it mattered most.
Bruce and Heaphy Anchor Strong First Innings
Skipper Tom Bruce led from the front with a composed innings, supported brilliantly by Curtis Heaphy, whose unbeaten 50 off 38 balls earned him the Player of the Match accolade. The pair propelled the Stags to 167/4, the highest total at the venue so far in this season’s tournament.
Smart strike rotation, calculated aggression, and a calm finish ensured the Stags gave themselves a total their bowlers could defend — and they did just that.
Hurricanes Crumble Early Before Nabi and Allen Launch Counter-Attack
The Hurricanes’ chase never really took off. By the 13th over, they were struggling at 62/5, with wickets falling at regular intervals due to disciplined bowling and sharp fielding by the Stags.
But just when the match looked dead and buried, Mohammed Nabi provided late fireworks. He bludgeoned Blair Tickner for a six and two fours in the 14th over, injecting some life into the chase. Partnering with Fabian Allen, the duo launched a daring assault on the Stags’ bowling.
Late Drama, But Tickner Holds His Nerve
As Allen took over the big-hitting duties, the equation boiled down to 19 runs needed off the final over — a scenario that had Stags fans biting their nails. But Tickner, having taken some punishment earlier, redeemed himself brilliantly.
He dismissed Nabi for 43 with a sharp return catch off the very first ball and later was involved in a crucial run-out. The Hurricanes’ charge ended at 151/8, falling agonizingly short in a gripping finish.
Stags Stay Alive, Hurricanes Under Pressure
The win gives the Stags a vital lifeline in the GSL playoff race, while the Hurricanes now face added pressure with their next challenge being against table-toppers and host favourites Guyana Amazon Warriors.
Brief Scores:
Central Stags 167/4 (Tom Bruce, Curtis Heaphy 50*)
Hobart Hurricanes XI 151/8 (Mohammed Nabi 43, Blair Tickner 2 wickets)
Result: Central Stags won by 16 runs.