In a rain-affected Qualifier 1 match of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024, Saint Lucia Kings emerged victorious over Guyana Amazon Warriors by 15 runs (DLS method), securing a spot in the final. Played at Providence Stadium, Guyana, this clash had excitement, high-scoring innings, and rain, which eventually played a decisive role in the outcome.
Match Summary
- Saint Lucia Kings: 198/5 (20 overs)
- Guyana Amazon Warriors: 106/4 (13 overs)
- Saint Lucia Kings won by 15 runs (DLS Method)
First Innings: Johnson Charles Fires Kings to a Strong Total
Batting first, Saint Lucia Kings posted a commanding 198/5 in their 20 overs. The foundation for this total was laid by the explosive innings from Johnson Charles, who was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knock. Charles hammered the Amazon Warriors’ bowling attack, scoring fluently and setting the tempo early in the game. His opening partner and captain, Faf du Plessis, played a supportive role, and together they formed a crucial partnership.
Charles’ aggressive approach and his improvement against spin bowling was evident as he targeted the Warriors’ bowlers. His innings, complemented by cameos from other batsmen like Roston Chase and David Wiese, helped the Kings reach a near 200 total on a surface that wasn’t the easiest for batting.
Second Innings: Warriors Struggle Amidst Rain and Loss of Wickets
In response, Guyana Amazon Warriors faced a stiff target but lost crucial wickets early in their chase. The Saint Lucia Kings bowlers, led by Alzarri Joseph, who bowled a wicket-maiden in the powerplay, quickly put the pressure on the Warriors. Wickets from Chase, Wiese, and Noor Ahmad kept the Warriors from getting any momentum in the chase.
Shimron Hetmyer was the lone bright spot for Guyana, as he kept hitting sixes and looked set to lead the charge. However, with the team behind on the required run rate and losing key wickets, the chase faltered. Hetmyer could not find enough support from the other end.
Rain and DLS Drama
As the match progressed, rain interrupted play during the 14th over of Guyana’s innings, with the team well behind the DLS par score. After a lengthy delay, the game was called off, and the DLS method determined that the Saint Lucia Kings were 15 runs ahead, securing them the victory and a place in the CPL 2024 final.
Post-Match Comments
Faf du Plessis praised the team’s effort, especially Johnson Charles’ innings, and the way the team has consistently adapted to different situations throughout the tournament. “To get 190-odd on a surface like that was a great effort. We’ve found ways to win games from different situations, and I’m looking forward to the final.”
Imran Tahir, the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ captain, was disappointed but hopeful for the upcoming Qualifier 2 against Barbados Royals. “We let ourselves down in the powerplay, but we came back well. We’ll give everything we have in the next game and come back stronger.”
Johnson Charles, the Player of the Match, expressed his excitement about playing in the final. “It’s all about having positive intent, and I just try to get my team off to a great start. We’ve been trying for many years, and this year is ours.”
Next Steps
Saint Lucia Kings will now prepare for the final, while Guyana Amazon Warriors will have another chance to reach the final when they face the Barbados Royals in Qualifier 2. Despite the defeat, the Warriors will be eager to bounce back and set up a rematch with the Kings.
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