Saint Lucia Kings’ openers, Johnson Charles and Faf du Plessis, set the tone with a blistering century partnership, leading the Kings to a comfortable five-wicket win over St Kitts and Nevis Patriots. Chasing 174, the Kings reached the target in 16.3 overs, thanks to Charles’ explosive 74 off 42 balls and du Plessis’ quick 62 off 31 balls. The win boosted the Kings’ net run rate and moved them up to third place in the standings.
Charles and Du Plessis Dominate Powerplay
Faf du Plessis started the chase with a boundary off Kyle Mayers, and Johnson Charles followed up with two massive sixes off Johann Layne. Du Plessis accelerated, smashing boundaries and sixes off Veerasammy Permaul and Anrich Nortje, while Charles continued his assault. The Kings raced to 72/0 at the end of the powerplay, laying a solid foundation for their victory.
Milestones and Partnership Breakthrough
Johnson Charles became the first player to cross 3000 runs in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and du Plessis reached his 25-ball half-century with successive sixes off Permaul. The pair brought up the Kings’ first 100-run opening stand since 2019. Despite du Plessis’ dismissal for 62, the Kings remained in control with 61 needed from 60 balls.
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Middle-Order Contribution and Chase Completion
Although the Kings lost a few quick wickets, including Charles for 74, Tim Seifert and Bhanuka Rajapaksa chipped in with crucial runs. Roston Chase sealed the victory with a boundary in the 17th over.
Patriots’ Struggles with the Bat
Earlier, the Patriots posted 173/5, with Andre Fletcher (62 off 40) and Rilee Rossouw (50 off 30) putting up a solid fight. However, despite a strong start, the Patriots faltered in the death overs, managing just 173, which proved insufficient against the Kings’ powerful batting lineup.
Brief Scores:
- St Kitts and Nevis Patriots: 173/5 in 20 overs (Andre Fletcher 62, Rilee Rossouw 50; Alzarri Joseph 2-38)
- Saint Lucia Kings: 176/5 in 16.3 overs (Johnson Charles 74, Faf du Plessis 62; Wanindu Hasaranga 2-13)
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