In an exciting clash at Providence, the St. Lucia Kings clinched a 13-run victory against the Barbados Royals in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on Sunday, solidifying their position in the playoffs.
The Royals won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that quickly proved to be a misstep.
Despite losing their captain Faf du Plessis early, Johnson Charles emerged as the star of the innings, delivering an impressive performance that propelled the Kings to a strong total.
Charles scored 53 runs off 42 balls, hitting four sixes and three fours, helping his team reach 65 for 1 after 10 overs.
Ackeem Auguste (35) and Tim Seifert (45) further solidified the Kings’ innings, building a substantial partnership that took the total to 162 for 3 by the end of their 20 overs.
Seifert’s explosive batting featured three sixes and an equal number of fours, showcasing the Kings’ aggressive approach.
Chasing a target of 163, the Royals began their innings positively with Kadeem Alleyne and Quinton de Kock, but the latter’s dismissal marked the start of a downturn.
Despite a valiant effort from David Miller, who contributed 22 runs, the Royals struggled against the Kings’ disciplined bowling attack.
David Wiese led the bowling charge for the Kings, taking 2 wickets for just 17 runs.
Alzarri Joseph and Noor Ahmed also played pivotal roles, each claiming two wickets, ultimately leading to the Royals’ collapse and securing a hard-fought victory for the Kings.
After the match, Johnson Charles reflected on his performance, noting that it was “out of character” for him but exactly what the team needed at that moment.
With both teams heading to the playoffs, the victory positions the Kings favorably as they prepare for the next stage of the tournament.