August 8, 2026 – The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons opened their 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League campaign with a dramatic final-ball victory over the Jamaica Kingsmen in Saint Vincent.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Falcons’ international-quality bowling attack restricted the Kingsmen to 167 for seven. West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, the player of the match, led the charge with three wickets for 34 runs, while Jayden Seales delivered an economical one for 19. Pakistan international Usama Mir was also effective, claiming one for 17 and conceding only three runs from his final over. The Kingsmen added 54 runs in the final four overs to lift their total to 167.
Chasing 168 for victory, the Falcons started in control, with Rahkeem Cornwall providing early momentum, striking 24 off 21 deliveries, including two fours and two sixes. Tajinder Singh then took control of the chase with an impressive 62 off just 37 balls. Singh and New Zealand’s Tim Robinson added 64 runs for the third wicket, shifting the match in the Falcons’ favor.
The Kingsmen fought throughout the innings, taking wickets at regular intervals. A costly over from Shah, which yielded 19 runs, reduced the required runs to 20 from the final three overs and gave the Falcons the advantage heading into the closing stages.
The Falcons appeared to be in control as they entered the final over needing only six runs. However, Hunain Shah struck with consecutive deliveries, dismissing Jahmar Hamilton and Usama Mir, both caught on the boundary, leaving the result hanging in the balance.
With two runs required off the final delivery, Shamar Springer held his nerve. A misfield by Kingsmen captain Rovman Powell at long-on allowed Springer and his partner to scramble back for the winning runs, sealing a thrilling opening victory for the Falcons as they began their 2026 CPL journey. The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons showed composure, resilience, and determination when it mattered most, defeating the Jamaica Kingsmen by two wickets off the final ball.
The Falcons’ starting XI for Match One comprised Evin Lewis, Rahkeem Cornwall, Tim Robinson, Jahmar Hamilton, Tajinder Singh, Karima Gore, Fabian Allen (captain), Shamar Springer, Usama Mir, Alzarri Joseph and Jayden Seales.
The Falcons return to action Sunday, 9 August versus St. Lucia, also in St Vincent, game time 7 pm.