Sandy Verma
Tezzbuzz|21-08-2025
The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons registered a thrilling 8-run victory over the Trinbago Knight Riders in the 7th match of the Caribbean Premier League 2025 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on August 20. The Falcons, after setting a competitive target of 168, held off a valiant fight from the Knight Riders, with standout performances from Obed McCoywho took 4 wickets for 39 runs. This victory was crucial in maintaining the Falcons’ dominance in the tournament.
The Falcons posted a strong total of 167/6 in their 20 overs, with pivotal contributions from their middle-order. Despite early wickets, including Rahkeem Cornwall (9) and Karima Gore (10), the team managed to stabilize through the performances of Imad Wasim (39 off 27 balls) and Fabian Allen (45 off 20 balls). Their aggression down the stretch allowed them to post a competitive total. Allen’s quickfire 45, which included three sixes, was the highlight, as he put pressure on the Knight Riders’ bowlers. With valuable cameos from Shamar Springer (10 not out off 5 balls) and solid support throughout, the Falcons finished their innings strongly, setting a target of 168 runs for victory.
Chasing 168, the Knight Riders started aggressively, with Colin Munro leading the charge by smashing 44 off 18 balls. However, a relentless bowling performance from the Falcons, spearheaded by McCoy (4/39), saw them consistently pick up wickets in the middle overs. McCoy’s superb spell broke the backbone of the Knight Riders’ chase, with key wickets such as Munro and Keacy Carty (35) falling at crucial junctures. Despite Kieron Pollard’s fightback (43 not out from 28 balls), the Falcons’ bowlers kept the pressure on, and with solid support from Wasim and Shakib Al Hasanthey restricted Trinbago to 159/6. The Falcons held on to win by 8 runs, securing a vital victory in the 7th match of the CPL.