By Anas Ahmed 
North Sound, August 24, 2025: Antigua & Barbuda Falcons reclaimed their place at the top of the CPL 2025 points table after a nail-biting 7-wicket victory over St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in game eleven of the competition.
It was an evening that belonged to Shakib Al Hasan, who combined history-making brilliance with match-winning composure, while Karima Gore’s unbeaten half-century sealed the chase in dramatic fashion.
Shakib Creates History
Asked to bowl first, the Falcons showed discipline from the outset. Jayden Seales (1/20) set the tone with a tight new-ball spell, while Shakib grabbed the spotlight with a spell for the ages.
The Bangladesh allrounder dismissed Mohammad Rizwan (30) with a sharp return catch to become the first cricketer in history to record 500 wickets and 7000 runs in T20 cricket. He went on to finish with 3/11 in 2 overs, turning the screws on a faltering Patriots batting unit.
Three run outs in the final over added to the Patriots’ woes as they limped to 133/9 in 20 overs, a total well below par despite the efforts of Evin Lewis (32 off 31).
Gore Guides the Chase
The chase was never straightforward as the Patriots fought hard to defend their modest score. The Falcons lost wickets at intervals, but Jewel Andrew (28 off 28) provided a solid start before Gore took charge.
The left-hander showcased maturity, anchoring the innings with a well-paced 52 not out off 47 balls, his third half-century of the season. Shakib chipped in with a handy 25 off 18, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking.
With three runs needed off the final over, Jason Holder bowled with fire, almost dragging the Patriots back into contention. But Gore held his nerve, striking a boundary straight down the ground to clinch victory with two balls to spare.
Brief Scores
St Kitts and Nevis Patriots 133/9 (20 overs) Evin Lewis 32 (31), Mohammad Rizwan 30 (26); Shakib Al Hasan 3/11, Jayden Seales 1/20
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons 137/3 (19.4 overs) Karima Gore 52* (47), Shakib Al Hasan 25 (18), Jewel Andrew 28 (28); Waqar Salamkheil 1/16, Navin Bidaisee 1/17
Result: Falcons won by 7 wickets with 2 balls remaining
Player of the Match: Shakib Al Hasan (25 & 3/11)
What It Means
The win marked the Falcons’ third victory of CPL 2025, strengthening their lead at the top of the table. The Patriots, meanwhile, remain stuck in mid-table, struggling with inconsistency and fitness concerns.
Zainab Shafiq