The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 noticed its first thriller in Antigua, the place the house facet, Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, registered a medical six-wicket win over Barbados Royals on the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Chasing 152, the Falcons held their nerve to complete the job with two balls to spare, using on match-winning half-century from a star participant.
Quinton de Kock and Rovman Powell steer Barbados Royals to a aggressive whole
Put in to bat first, Barbados Royals had a combined outing with the bat. Quinton de Kock anchored the innings with a well-paced 57 off 45 balls, hanging 5 boundaries and a six. Whereas wickets fell on the different finish, Rovman Powell’s explosive cameo modified the momentum briefly. The Royals skipper hammered 51 runs off simply 24 deliveries, smashing three fours and 5 sixes to carry his facet to 151/6 of their 20 overs.
The Falcons’ bowlers, nonetheless, have been disciplined for probably the most half. Jayden Seales (2/15) and Obed McCoy (2/29) bowled with management on the demise, whereas younger spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar impressed with 1/19 in his full quota. Imad Wasim too chipped in with a cheap spell, maintaining the Royals’ center order in test.
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Karima Gore guides Antigua and Barbuda Falcons’ chase
In response, the Falcons’ chase was constructed on partnerships and composure. Jewel Andrew gave them a stable begin with a run-a-ball 28, whereas Rahkeem Cornwall performed a brief however brisk hand. The spine of the innings, although, got here from Karima Gore, who stood tall underneath strain. His unbeaten 62 off 52 deliveries was a masterclass in pacing the chase — mixing regular strokes with well timed boundaries.
Shakib Al Hasan and Wasim made helpful contributions within the center, nevertheless it was Fabian Allen’s 13 off 7 balls that ensured the Falcons crossed the road with none late drama. The successful runs got here with simply two balls left, sending the house crowd into celebrations.
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons open their account with an exhilarating win over Barbados Royals 🔥💪#CPL #CPL2025
Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/O7wsZJTlrR pic.twitter.com/YdZxRPhs4Y— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 17, 2025
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