The CPL 2024 match between St Lucia Kings and Trinbago Knight Riders on September 24 turned into a six-hitting festival, courtesy of a powerful knock by Johnson Charles. The 35-year-old West Indian, known for his explosive batting, played a blistering innings of 89 runs off just 40 balls, featuring an impressive 8 sixes and 7 boundaries. With this remarkable display of power-hitting, Charles set a new record for the most sixes in CPL 2024, surpassing Quinton de Kock.
St Lucia Kings Off to a Blazing Start
St Lucia Kings were put to bat first after Trinbago Knight Riders won the toss. The decision seemed to backfire for Trinbago, as the opening duo of Johnson Charles and captain Faf du Plessis took control of the game from the outset. Both batsmen were in prime form, smashing the ball to all parts of the ground and piling on runs at a rapid pace.
A Record-Breaking Partnership
The highlight of the match was the record-breaking partnership between Faf du Plessis and Johnson Charles. The two combined for a massive 145-run stand, which set a new record for the highest opening partnership for St Lucia Kings in CPL history. They surpassed the previous record of 139 runs with ease, laying a strong foundation for a formidable total.
Charles’ Thunderous 40-Ball Knock
Johnson Charles’ innings was nothing short of spectacular. His 89-run blitz off just 40 deliveries was filled with fireworks, as he smashed 8 towering sixes along with 7 crisp boundaries. With a staggering strike rate of 222.50, Charles not only helped his team set a commanding total but also earned the distinction of hitting the most sixes in the tournament. His 8 sixes in this match took his total tally in CPL 2024 to 25, moving him ahead of Quinton de Kock’s 24 sixes.
Faf du Plessis’ Steady Contribution
While Charles stole the spotlight, St Lucia Kings’ skipper Faf du Plessis also played a crucial role in the team’s success. He contributed a steady 59 runs from 43 balls, maintaining a healthy strike rate while ensuring the team capitalized on their strong start. Du Plessis’ calm presence at the crease helped keep the scoreboard ticking as he anchored the innings alongside Charles.
St Lucia Kings Post a Mammoth 218
Powered by Charles’ blitzkrieg and Du Plessis’ half-century, St Lucia Kings posted a massive 218 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Tim Seifert added a quick 30 runs to further solidify the team’s total, leaving the Trinbago Knight Riders with an uphill task to chase down the target of 219 runs.
Trinbago Knight Riders Fall 80 Runs Short
In response, Trinbago Knight Riders struggled to keep up with the required run rate. Despite having hard-hitters like Kieron Pollard, Andre Russell, and Nicholas Pooran in their ranks, the team crumbled under pressure. They were bowled out for 138 in just 17.5 overs, falling 80 runs short of the target.
St Lucia Kings’ bowlers, led by Noor Ahmed, who took 3 wickets, ensured that Trinbago never got into a rhythm. Ahmed’s crucial breakthroughs derailed the chase, securing a comfortable win for St Lucia Kings.
Charles Named Player of the Match
For his explosive batting and match-winning performance, Johnson Charles was rightfully named Player of the Match. His record-breaking innings not only propelled St Lucia Kings to victory but also etched his name in CPL 2024 history as the player with the most sixes in the tournament.
