Caribbean Premier League: Barbados Royals Dominate Antigua & Barbuda Falcons
ANTIGUA, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – SEPTEMBER 01: Quinton De Kock of Barbados Royals bats during the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match between Antigua & Barbuda Falcons and Barbados Royal at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground on September 01, 2024 in Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)
Match Summary
The Barbados Royals crushed the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by nine wickets in the fourth match of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in North Sound, Antigua on Sunday.
Falcons’ Struggle
Under bright, clear skies, the Falcons were asked to take the first strike but struggled to find their rhythm thanks to disciplined bowling, impressive fielding, and sharp catching. They lost two early wickets during the Powerplay and two more in quick succession, leaving them reeling at 47 for four and struggling to post a competitive total.
Andrew’s Counterattacking Knock
Jewel Andrew, the Falcons’ 17-year-old sensation, who had already impressed with a half-century in their opening match against the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, once again led the resistance. His counterattacking 48 off 35 balls, featuring three boundaries and two towering sixes, helped the Falcons reach 145 for 9.
Bowling Efforts
Obed McCoy was the pick of the bowlers, bagging three wickets for 31 runs. Jason Holder was equally impressive in the death overs, delivering 12 dot balls and picking up two wickets for just 21 runs. Spin duo Theekshana and Wellalage also played crucial roles by picking up two and one wickets, respectively.
Royals’ Dominant Reply
The Royals’ reply was swift and ruthless, with de Kock and fellow opener Rahkeem Cornwall dismantling the Falcons’ bowling attack in the Powerplay. They surged to 76 without loss in the first six overs, effectively putting the game out of reach early on.
De Kock’s Heroics
De Kock, who grew increasingly confident and inventive as the innings progressed, anchored the chase with some swashbuckling hitting. He sealed the victory in style, smashing Mohammad Amir for a boundary over extra cover, followed by a massive six straight down the ground, finishing unbeaten on 87 from just 45 deliveries. Cornwall contributed 34 from 20 balls with five fours and two sixes, while Shamarh Brooks weighed in with an unbeaten 21 from 28 balls.
Captain’s Praise
De Kock’s outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award, and Royals captain Rovman Powell praised the South African star’s influence on the younger players.
Conclusion
The Barbados Royals’ dominant performance against the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons sets them up well for the rest of the Caribbean Premier League. With De Kock leading the charge, the Royals will look to continue their winning momentum in their upcoming matches.
FAQs
- What was the outcome of the match between Barbados Royals and Antigua & Barbuda Falcons?
The Barbados Royals won by nine wickets. - Who was the top scorer for the Falcons?
Jewel Andrew scored 48 off 35 balls. - Who was the pick of the bowlers for the Royals?
Obed McCoy bagged three wickets for 31 runs.
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