The Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) faced a heartbreaking exit from the CPL 2024 in the Eliminator match against the Barbados Royals (BR), falling short due to an unusual floodlight failure and a DLS-method revised target. The match at Providence Stadium in Guyana saw TKR post a solid 168/3 in 19.5 overs before an unexpected power outage cut their innings short, setting a revised target of 60 runs in 5 overs for BR under the DLS method.
Pooran’s Heroics and Incomplete Innings
TKR’s innings was led by a remarkable knock from Nicholas Pooran, who remained unbeaten with 91 runs off 59 balls. His powerful hitting, supported by Jason Roy’s quickfire 25 off 17, had TKR in a strong position before the floodlight failure interrupted the final over. With just one ball remaining in the innings, TKR missed out on adding crucial runs that could have set a more challenging target.
Maheesh Theekshana was the standout bowler for BR, claiming 1/33 in his four overs, but the disruption left TKR wondering what might have been.
Andre Russell expresses frustration
An unexpected floodlight failure caused by adverse weather conditions led to an abrupt halt in TKR’s innings, leaving them unable to complete their final over. This disruption not only cut short their momentum but also forced the match to be decided by the DLS method, giving Barbados Royals a significantly reduced target. The unpredictable weather added an unfortunate twist to what could have been a thrilling contest.
Andre Russell posted a story on Instagram expressing displeasure over the floodlight issue. He wrote, “Am not the person to come on the internet and voice my opinion but this year CPL I feel robbed this light situation was fuckry lights came on just before the cut off time is also fuckry and then 60 off 30 balls is also a bigger fuckry and yes Andre Russell said it right is right fuckry a fuckry but I guess it’s just pure fuckry a gwaan”.
The Chase and Miller’s Masterclass
Defending a modest total of 60 runs in five overs was always going to be a challenge for TKR, but Sunil Narine gave them hope by removing Quinton de Kock in the first over. Chris Jordan also thought he had dismissed BR skipper Rovman Powell, but the delivery was ruled a no-ball, giving Powell a lifeline.
However, the night belonged to David Miller, whose explosive knock of 50* from just 17 balls took the game away from TKR. Miller hit five towering sixes, bringing BR home with 9 wickets in hand in just 4.2 overs.
A Disappointing End to a Memorable Campaign
Despite their early success in the league stages and victories over the Royals in previous encounters, TKR’s campaign came to a frustrating end. The team’s efforts in the eliminator were overshadowed by uncontrollable circumstances, but their journey in CPL 2024 will be remembered for their teamwork and individual brilliance throughout the season.
As TKR bow out of the tournament, they can take pride in their performances, especially Pooran’s leadership with the bat and the way the team gelled together at crucial moments. However, the eliminator loss due to factors beyond their control will leave them with a sense of unfinished business.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram