In a crucial match against arch-rival Trinbago Knight Riders, Saim Ayub’s stellar performance with the bat propelled the Guyana Amazon Warriors to the pinnacle of the table in the Republic Bank CPL. The encounter took place at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.
Trinbago Knight Riders had a slow start after losing the toss, with two quick wickets falling, leaving them at 34 for 2. However, the dynamic partnership of Nicholas Pooran (18), Lorcan Tucker (38 from 25), and Akeal Hosein (44) resurrected the innings, propelling them to a potentially match-winning total of 172 for 8. Hosein’s aggressive batting, featuring 3 sixes and 2 fours, played a pivotal role in the recovery.
Guyana’s Odean Smith led the bowling attack, claiming 3 wickets for 31 runs.
When it was the Warriors’ turn to face the Knight Riders’ bowling, they too experienced a shaky start. However, Ayub, along with Shai Hope, laid a strong foundation for a successful chase. Ayub’s explosive innings included 4 fours and 4 sixes in his 43-ball stay, while Hope contributed an equally impressive 51 runs from 40 balls, featuring 3 fours and 3 sixes.
After the dismissal of the pair, Azam Khan (29) and Shimron Hetmyer (13) ensured a comfortable finish, securing the victory in 19.1 overs. Ali Khan and Andre Russell of Trinbago Knight Riders each took two wickets.
With four wins from five matches, Guyana now narrowly leads the points standings with 9 points. St. Lucia Kings closely follow with three wins from six matches, accumulating 8 points for second place. Trinbago Knight Riders secure the third spot on the table with 7 points from three wins.