In the highly anticipated CPL 2024 clash on 21st September, cricket fans were expecting a high-scoring game between Barbados Royals and St. Lucia Kings. However, the match turned out to be a bowler’s paradise, thanks to the brilliant performance of Alzarri Joseph, who dismantled the Barbados Royals’ batting lineup. The Royals were bundled out for one of their lowest totals in T20 history, marking a memorable victory for St. Lucia Kings.
Alzarri Joseph’s Stellar Performance
Alzarri Joseph, known for his fierce pace and accuracy, once again proved his worth on the field. The 27-year-old fast bowler wreaked havoc on the Barbados Royals’ batsmen, picking up 4 wickets for just 22 runs in his 4-over spell. His deadly bowling left the opposition struggling to even cross the 100-run mark. Joseph’s performance in this match brought his total wicket count in CPL 2024 to 9 wickets in 7 matches, making him one of the standout bowlers of the tournament.
A Special Plan for Quinton de Kock
One of the most important wickets Joseph took was that of the in-form Quinton de Kock, who had been in sensational form throughout CPL 2024, hitting 23 sixes in the tournament. Joseph revealed after the match that he had a specific plan to dismiss de Kock. He decided to bowl around the wicket and target the stumps, which paid off as he got the dangerous opener out early in the innings. De Kock’s dismissal was a turning point, as it derailed the momentum of Barbados Royals right from the start.
Barbados Royals’ Third Lowest Score After Name Change
Barbados Royals, formerly known as Barbados Tridents, could manage to score only 96 runs for 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. This marked their third lowest total since they changed their name in 2021. Their lowest score post name change was 61 runs in CPL 2023, followed by 93 runs in CPL 2021. The poor performance of their batting lineup was largely due to the relentless pressure created by Joseph and the rest of the St. Lucia Kings’ bowling attack.
Major Wickets in Joseph’s Spell
Joseph didn’t just take any wickets—he dismissed key players from both the top and middle order. He first took the wickets of Rahkeem Cornwall and Quinton de Kock, giving his team a perfect start. Later, he removed Rovman Powell, the captain of Barbados Royals, and David Miller, further weakening the batting lineup. His ability to deliver in crucial moments made all the difference for St. Lucia Kings in this match.
St. Lucia Kings Chase Down the Target Comfortably
Chasing a modest target of 97 runs, St. Lucia Kings, under the captaincy of Faf du Plessis, comfortably reached the target in just 13.5 overs, losing only 3 wickets in the process. The Kings’ batsmen handled the chase with ease, completing the match with 37 balls remaining. This comprehensive victory not only gave them 2 important points but also secured their spot in the playoffs of CPL 2024.
Alzarri Joseph’s heroics in this match will be remembered as one of the standout performances of the 2024 CPL season, as he led his team to a dominant win over one of the strongest sides in the tournament.
