Dwaine Pretorius’ late-game heroics secured a dramatic last-ball win for the defending champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW), against the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in the second match of the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
The match, held at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, ended with GAW chasing down a target of 169 to win by three wickets.
The Falcons, after a slow start, posted a competitive total of 168 for 6, with Gudakesh Motie standing out for GAW, claiming three wickets for 25 runs from his four overs.
In reply, GAW’s innings saw wickets fall at regular intervals. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (21) and Shimron Hetmyer (19) were dismissed early, leaving GAW struggling at 100 for 5 in the 12th over.
Shai Hope contributed a solid 41 runs, and Romario Shepherd added 32 before both were dismissed, leaving GAW needing 22 runs from the final overs.
It was down to Pretorius (20) and Shamar Joseph (6) to see GAW home with timely boundaries, securing a thrilling win with a final score of 171 for 7.
After the match, GAW captain Imran Tahir praised his team’s resilience, expressing satisfaction with their determination to step up under pressure.
The Amazon Warriors will next face the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots on Wednesday.