CPL 2025: Karima Gore shines as Antigua and Barbuda Falcons pip Barbados Royals in a thriller

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The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 saw its first thriller in Antigua, where the home side, Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, registered a clinical six-wicket win over Barbados Royals at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Chasing 152, the Falcons held their nerve to finish the job with two balls to spare, riding on match-winning half-century from a star player.

Put in to bat first, Barbados Royals had a mixed outing with the bat. Quinton de Kock anchored the innings with a well-paced 57 off 45 balls, striking five boundaries and a six. While wickets fell at the other end, Rovman Powell’s explosive cameo changed the momentum briefly. The Royals skipper hammered 51 runs off just 24 deliveries, smashing three fours and five sixes to lift his side to 151/6 in their 20 overs.

The Falcons’ bowlers, however, were disciplined for the most part. Jayden Seales (2/15) and Obed McCoy (2/29) bowled with control at the death, while young spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar impressed with 1/19 in his full quota. Imad Wasim too chipped in with an economical spell, keeping the Royals’ middle order in check.

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In response, the Falcons’ chase was built on partnerships and composure. Jewel Andrew gave them a solid start with a run-a-ball 28, while Rahkeem Cornwall played a short but brisk hand. The backbone of the innings, though, came from Karima Gore, who stood tall under pressure. His unbeaten 62 off 52 deliveries was a masterclass in pacing the chase — mixing steady strokes with timely boundaries.

Shakib Al Hasan and Wasim made useful contributions in the middle, but it was Fabian Allen’s 13 off 7 balls that ensured the Falcons crossed the line without any late drama. The winning runs came with just two balls left, sending the home crowd into celebrations.

Antigua and Barbuda Falcons open their account with a thrilling win over Barbados Royals 🔥💪#CPL #CPL2025 Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/O7wsZJTlrR

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) August 17, 2025

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