Caribbean Premier League: Patriots defeat Falcons by 6 wickets

BASSETERRE: The Caribbean Premier League 2025 began with the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots defeating the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons by six wickets in the opening match at Warner Park.

After winning the toss and opting to field, the Patriots quickly unsettled the Falcons’ batting lineup. Early breakthrough by seamers and spinners curtailed the Falcons’ scoring momentum.

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Afghanistan’s wristspinner Waqar Salamkheil claimed four wickets while conceding 22 runs in his allotted four overs.

His precise variations and control enabled him to remove top and middle-order batters, tipping the balance in the Patriots’ favour.

Despite a strong performance from US batters Karima Gore, who scored 61 runs, the rest of Falcons’ batters failed to perform.

The side was bowled out for 121 in 17.1 overs, setting a modest target for the Patriots to chase.

Steady chase underpins Patriots victory

The Patriots pursued the target calmly, though they lost an early wicket. Middle-order batter Alick Athanaze and Andre Fletcher rebuilt the innings with a measured partnership.

Athanaze ended unbeaten on 37, while Fletcher contributed 19 runs. Captain Jason Holder supported the team effort lower down the order, guiding the Patriots to a comfortable victory with five overs remaining.

Pitch conditions

The very first match of the Caribbean Premier League was played on a surface  that offered noticeable advantage for spin bowlers, with moisture in the pitch adding to the challenge for the batters.

Both teams adjusted their tactics accordingly, utilising spin bowling as a key weapon.

Post-match commentary

Post-game, Jason Holder praised the team’s balance performance, highlighting Salamkheil’s role in securing early wickets. He talked about the importance of consistency throughout the tournament.

Meanwhile, Falcons captain Imad Wasim admitted missed opportunities throughout the match. He stated that there was a need to build partnerships in future matches.

Salamkheil expressed his happiness with his debut performance while praising the teamwork within the Patriots squad.

Caribbean Premier League

The Caribbean Premier League is a T20 cricket league based in the Caribbean, launched in 2013. The 2025 edition features six franchises representing various countries and territories: Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Saint Lucia Kings, and Trinbago Knight Riders.

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The tournament’s format consists of a double round-robin group stage, where each team plays ten matches. This is followed by play-offs including qualifiers and eliminators culminating in the final.

The 2025 CPL will run from August 14 to September 21 across several venues in six Caribbean nations.