In a nail-biting showdown at Warner Park, Fabian Allen’s late-game heroics led the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons to a thrilling two-wicket victory over the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, as they chased down 154 with just two balls to spare.
Despite Wanindu Hasaranga’s devastating four-wicket haul, the Falcons staged a stunning lower-order comeback to claim their second consecutive win, keeping their Caribbean Premier League playoff hopes alive in a heart-stopping contest.
The victory pushed the Falcons up to third place in the standings with four points from six games, while the Patriots languish at the bottom with just two points, having lost five consecutive matches following their opening win.
Falcons’ fightback
Chasing 154, the Falcons found themselves in trouble at 110 for seven in the 16th over, after a devastating spell from Wanindu Hasaranga. The Sri Lankan spinner took four key wickets, removing opener Justin Greaves for 30, as well as Shamar Springer, Jewel Andrew, and Sam Billings in quick succession.
However, Imad Wasim, named Player of the Match, led a crucial fightback. His unbeaten 17, along with a swift 15 from Roshon Primus, shifted the momentum. The duo added 30 runs in just three overs to bring the Falcons within striking distance before Primus was dismissed by Anrich Nortje in the 19th over.
With 11 runs needed off the final over, Fabian Allen stepped up. After hitting a six off the second ball and a four off the third, Allen sealed the match by chopping the fourth delivery to point for a single, taking the Falcons to 154 for eight and securing their second consecutive CPL win.
Patriots’ innings
Earlier, the Patriots struggled after being sent in to bat. Openers Evin Lewis and Andre Fletcher fell cheaply, leaving the side at 36 for three after six overs. Kyle Mayers provided some brief resistance with a 22-run cameo before he was dismissed, further stifling the Patriots’ momentum.
Wanindu Hasaranga contributed 23, but it was Mikyle Louis who ignited the innings with a powerful knock of 63 off 36 balls, including seven sixes. Louis’ explosive hitting in the final overs, particularly against Fabian Allen and Imad Wasim, lifted the Patriots to a competitive total.
Louis smashed three sixes in the 19th over and two more in the final over before being caught and bowled by Wasim. Despite the late fireworks, the Patriots’ total proved just short in the end.
For the Falcons, Mohammed Amir was the standout bowler with figures of 3-27, while Imad Wasim (2-24) and Fabian Allen (2-44) provided valuable support.
