Barbados Royals Edge Past St Kitts and Nevis Patriots by 2 Wickets in Thrilling Contest
In a closely contested match of the 2024 Caribbean Premier League, Barbados Royals clinched a narrow two-wicket victory over St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in the 9th match of the tournament. Chasing a target of 154, Barbados Royals reached 157 for 8 in 19.5 overs, securing their second win of the competition.
Patriots’ Struggles with the Bat
Batting first, St Kitts and Nevis Patriots struggled early on, losing three quick wickets for no runs. Evin Lewis, captain Andre Fletcher, and Kyle Mayers were all dismissed for ducks within the first three overs, with Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage wreaking havoc with the new ball.
Mikyle Louis (30 off 20) and Wanindu Hasaranga (40 off 27) steadied the innings, playing crucial knocks under pressure. However, other batters failed to capitalize on starts, with Josh Clarkson (24* off 32) and Ryan John (29 off 14) providing some late resistance. The Patriots finished on 153 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Theekshana (2 for 16) and Wellalage (3 for 35) were the standout performers for the Royals with the ball, while Obed McCoy chipped in with two wickets.
Barbados Royals’ Nervy Chase
Barbados Royals’ reply started on a shaky note as Rahkeem Cornwall and Quinton de Kock were dismissed early. Kadeem Alleyne’s quickfire 30 off 18 balls gave the innings momentum, but regular wickets pegged the Royals back.
Dunith Wellalage’s composed 39 off 32 balls kept the chase alive, while captain Rovman Powell (19 off 19) and Jason Holder (17 off 12) provided valuable contributions. However, it was Nyeem Young’s explosive 17* off just 7 deliveries that proved decisive, sealing the win with one ball to spare.
For the Patriots, Kyle Mayers impressed with 2 for 17, while Veerasammy Permaul was economical, picking up 1 for 16 in his four overs.
Key Performances:
St Kitts and Nevis Patriots: Wanindu Hasaranga (40 off 27), Ryan John (29 off 14), Mikyle Louis (30 off 20)
Barbados Royals: Dunith Wellalage (39 off 32, 3 wickets), Kadeem Alleyne (30 off 18), Nyeem Young (17* off 7)
Barbados Royals now sit comfortably in the middle of the points table, while the Patriots will need to regroup after this narrow defeat.xt