• Odean Smith's stunning catch steals the show during the 1st match of CPL 2024.

  • St Kitts and Nevis Patriots defeated the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons with a thrilling chase in the CPL game.

WATCH: Odean Smith grabs a stunner to dismiss Sam Billings in CPL 2024
Odean Smith grabs a stunner to dismiss Sam Billings in CPL 2024 (Image source: X)

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 kicked off with a bang in Antigua, as the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons faced off against the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots. The match was filled with exciting moments, but it was one particular catch that truly captured the attention of the crowd and viewers alike.

Odean Smith’s moment of magic

Odean Smith‘s catch in the CPL 2024 match between the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots was a moment of pure athleticism and skill. The incident occurred during the 14th over of the Falcons’ innings, when Sam Billings attempted a pick-up shot off a back-of-a-length delivery from Dominic Drakes.

The ball soared high into the air, seemingly destined to sail over the backward square leg boundary. However, Smith, positioned perfectly, had other plans. With a leap that defied gravity, Smith stretched out his right hand and managed to get his fingers underneath the ball, taking a firm hold.

But the challenge wasn’t over yet. As the all-rounder landed, he realized that the momentum was carrying him over the boundary line. In a split-second decision, he released the ball just before stepping over the line and then quickly stepped back into play to complete the catch.

Here’s the video:

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A close contest between the two teams

Before Smith’s stunning catch, the match had been a closely contested affair. The Falcons struggled to get going early on, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Fakhar Zaman‘s counter-attacking innings provided some much-needed momentum. Unfortunately, the Falcons’ momentum was halted by the loss of key wickets, including Sam Billings, who was dismissed by a brilliant catch from Smith.

A young star emerges to the task

Despite the setbacks, the Falcons found an unlikely hero in 17-year-old Jewel Andrew. The young prodigy played a mature and composed innings, scoring a brilliant 50 off 30 balls. His partnership with Fabian Allen helped the Falcons reach a competitive total of 163/4.

The game ends with a thrilling chase

The Patriots’ chase was off to a promising start, but they faced a tough task to chase down the Falcons’ total. With the memory of Smith’s catch still fresh in their minds, the Falcons’ bowlers would need to be at their best to defend their total.

The opening match of the CPL 2024 provided a glimpse of the exciting cricket that fans can expect throughout the tournament. Odean Smith’s incredible catch will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the season.

Also READ: Heinrich Klaasen withdraws from CPL 2024 due to family emergency, replacement announced

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.