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The Barbados Royals (BBR) bounced back from their heavy defeat to the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) and returned to winning ways in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2023 by defeating the reigning champions, the Jamaica Tallawahs (JMT), by six wickets at Kensington Oval on Thursday (August 31).
In a smart move, the Royals won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that paid dividends in the early stages of the game. The Tallawahs lost their first two crucial wickets within the initial five overs, leaving the score at a mere 16 runs. The established hitters, Brandon King (1) and Kirk McKenzie (7), were both dismissed cheaply, leaving the team in a dire situation.
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Laurie Evans’ remarkable grab swings the momentum in favour of the Royals
Following the early dismissals of two key batters, the responsibility to salvage the innings fell squarely on the shoulders of the experienced English campaigner, Alex Hales. Hales signaled his intent with two powerful fours, hinting at a potential revival. However, his innings was abruptly halted, courtesy of a spectacular piece of fielding by his fellow countryman, Laurie Evans.
It all unfolded on the very first delivery of the fifth over, bowled by Jason Holder. Hales attempted to loft the ball over the long-off region, but the connection was far from perfect, lacking the necessary power behind the shot. Positioned at mid-off, Evans swiftly sprang into action, immediately backtracking and keeping a sharp focus on the ball. With unwavering determination, he continued his backward run and expertly secured the catch at long-off, bringing an end to Hales’ innings in a remarkable manner.
Here’s the video:
Sensational Catch from Laurie Evans to get Alex Hales out early takes the @BetBarteronline Magic Moment! 👏#CPL23 #BRvJT #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #BetBarter pic.twitter.com/bQHuWGQlWW
— CPL T20 (@CPL) August 31, 2023
Alick Athnaze’s heroic innings paves the way for Tallawahs in the run chase
Following those early blows, the Tallawahs’ innings crumbled within the powerplay, losing three crucial wickets. Yet, a strong recovery effort in the latter stages, led by the remarkable performance of Shamarh Brooks, who amassed 78 runs from 41 deliveries, featuring seven fours and four sixes, ensured that the Tallawahs posted a challenging 160/7 for the Royals to chase down.
Chasing a target of 161 runs was no walk in the park for the Royals, especially when they lost both Rahkeem Cornwall (17) and Kyle Mayers (4) in the PowerPlay, making the contest appear poised for a nail-biting finish. Nevertheless, the partnership of 89 runs between Alick Athanaze (76) and Evans (30) brought stability to the Royals’ innings.
In the 16th over, Chris Green managed to dismiss Evans, and Salman Irshad got Athanaze to top edge one to the fine leg boundary. Nonetheless, Rovman Powell and Holder ensured the Royals’ triumphant march, rejuvenating their prospects and placing them firmly back in contention for a coveted playoff spot.
