Bridgetown, Barbados – The Barbados Royals registered a dramatic 10-run victory over the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in the 13th match of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, held at Kensington Oval on September 11, 2024. Despite a rain interruption, the Royals chased down a revised target of 118 runs using the DLS method, with key contributions from Quinton de Kock and Alick Athanaze.
Falcons Set Competitive Target
Electing to bat first, the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons put up a challenging total of 176/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Brandon King (27 off 19) and Justin Greaves (61* off 52) provided a solid platform for the team, with Greaves anchoring the innings. Sam Billings also played a key role, scoring a fluent 56 off 43 balls. Despite some middle-order stumbles, Falcons managed a decent total thanks to Greaves’ steady knock and a quick cameo from Shamar Springer (10* off 3).
Jason Holder and Naveen-ul-Haq were the standout bowlers for the Royals, each claiming 2 wickets and keeping the Falcons’ scoring in check towards the latter half of the innings.
Rain-Interrupted Royals’ Chase
In response, the Barbados Royals faced a revised target of 118 runs from 14.3 overs after a rain delay. They started shakily, losing Rahkeem Cornwall for a duck in the first over. However, Quinton de Kock stepped up with a blistering 48 off 30 balls, supported by Alick Athanaze, who contributed a handy 34 off 29.
De Kock and Athanaze built a crucial partnership of 73 runs for the second wicket, setting up the chase before de Kock’s dismissal at a critical juncture. Rovman Powell (15* off 11) and David Miller (19* off 13) guided the Royals to victory with nine balls to spare, taking full advantage of the DLS method.
Key Performers:
- Quinton de Kock was named Player of the Match for his match-winning contribution of 48 off 30 with the bat and two crucial catches behind the stumps.
- Justin Greaves stood tall for the Falcons with an unbeaten 61 off 52 but could not get enough support from the lower order.
- Jason Holder and Naveen-ul-Haq were exceptional with the ball for the Royals, sharing 4 wickets between them.
Records and Notable Performances:
- This was a crucial win for the Barbados Royals as they keep their CPL 2024 campaign alive.
- Quinton de Kock’s 48 provided the foundation for the Royals’ successful chase.
- The DLS method played a pivotal role in determining the outcome, with Barbados managing to stay ahead of the required rate.
Brief Scores:
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons: 176/5 in 20 overs (Justin Greaves 61*, Sam Billings 56; Jason Holder 2/36, Naveen-ul-Haq 2/34)
Barbados Royals: 127/3 in 14.3 overs (Quinton de Kock 48, Alick Athanaze 34; Chris Green 1/32)
Result: Barbados Royals won by 10 runs (DLS method)
Player of The Match: Quinton de Kock for his brilliant 48 runs and 2 catches behind the wicket. The victory allows the Barbados Royals to climb further in the CPL 2024 standings, while the Falcons will look to regroup for their upcoming fixtures.
