Antigua and Barbuda Falcons (ABF) wicketkeeper Sam Billings pulled off a sensational run-out to dismiss Barbados Royals (BR) batter Alick Athanaze during a rain-affected 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) match on September 11 in Bridgetown. Despite Billings’ heroics behind the stumps and a crucial half-century with the bat, ABF were handed their fifth defeat of the season as BR secured a 10-run win via the D/L method, extending their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Billings’ Stunning Run-Out Ends Athanaze’s Knock
In a thrilling CPL encounter on September 11, Antigua and Barbuda Falcons’ wicketkeeper Sam Billings executed a remarkable run-out to dismiss Barbados Royals’ Alick Athanaze. With BR chasing a target of 177 and well-placed at 73/1 in the 10th over, Athanaze was involved in a crucial 72-run partnership with Quinton de Kock. However, disaster struck when de Kock’s scoop shot was deflected by the inside edge, reaching Billings who was positioned behind the stumps.
Billings’ quick thinking and accurate throw dismantled the stumps, catching Athanaze short of his ground. This pivotal moment not only halted BR’s momentum but also shifted the game’s balance, as Athanaze’s dismissal left the team at 93/3. Despite the disruption, BR ultimately secured a victory through the D/L method due to rain, but Billings’ athleticism and precision were a highlight of the match.
Billings’ Batting Efforts and ABF’s Continued Struggles
Despite a commendable half-century from Sam Billings, Antigua and Barbuda Falcons fell short in their clash against the Barbados Royals. Billings, overcoming a challenging start to the season, scored 56 off 43 balls, which included five boundaries and a six. His innings helped ABF set a competitive total of 176/5. This performance brought his season tally to 124 runs in seven matches, though his strike rate and average reflect a season of ups and downs.
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ABF’s continued struggles were evident as they lost their fifth game of the season, remaining in a lowly position on the points table with only two wins. In contrast, the Barbados Royals continued their winning streak, standing as one of the two unbeaten teams alongside the Guyana Warriors. Billings and ABF will aim for redemption in their next fixture against the St. Lucia Kings on September 15.
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