Cricket

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has announced that the finals for the next two years will be held in Guyana and Barbados. Guyana will host the final in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year that the Providence Stadium will host the championship match. In 2026, the final will be held at Kensington Oval in Barbados for the first time ever.The CPL made the announcement in a press release on Friday, stating that it had agreed to one-year deals with the two venues. Guyana's President, Mohammed Irfan Ali, expressed his support for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, the defending CPL champions, and announced Guyana's hosting of the 2025 final.Barbados Royals, two-time CPL winners, will be eager to reclaim the trophy on home soil in 2026. CPL CEO Pete Russell praised Guyana and Barbados for their partnership with the league over the past 12 years and thanked the governments of both countries for agreeing to host the finals.The Amazon Warriors secured their berth in Sunday's final after defeating the Barbados Royals in the second qualifier. Quickfire knocks from Moeen Ali, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Shai Hope helped the Warriors chase down 149 runs in just 15 overs. The Warriors will now face the St Lucia Kings in the championship match on October 6.The CPL is one of the most popular cricket tournaments in the Caribbean, featuring some of the world's top players. The league has played a significant role in developing cricket in the region and has helped to promote the sport globally.

Dwayne Bravo, the legendary all-rounder, has bid farewell to cricket after a glittering career spanning over two decades. The 41-year-old, who holds the record for most T20 wickets, announced his retirement on Instagram, citing physical limitations.Bravo's international career ended in 2021, and he stepped away from the IPL last year. However, he continued to play in various T20 leagues around the world, including the CPL, where he was the most decorated player with five titles.In his retirement post, Bravo expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his career. He acknowledged that his body could no longer withstand the rigors of the game, and he did not want to compromise his performance or let down his teammates.Bravo's retirement marks the end of an era in T20 cricket. He was known for his exceptional bowling skills, particularly his variations and ability to bowl at the death. He also contributed with the bat, often playing crucial cameos in the lower order.Beyond his on-field achievements, Bravo was also a respected leader and mentor. He played a key role in nurturing young players, such as Dominic Drakes and Ali Khan, who have gone on to become stars in their own right.Bravo's retirement leaves a void in the world of cricket. He was a true entertainer and a role model for aspiring cricketers. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Dwayne Bravo, the legendary all-rounder, has bid farewell to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after sustaining a groin injury during a match against St Lucia Kings. The 40-year-old had initially planned to retire at the end of the 2024 season, but the untimely injury has forced him to end his CPL career prematurely.Bravo's injury occurred while attempting to catch Kings' captain Faf du Plessis in the seventh over. He immediately left the field and did not bowl a single over in what turned out to be his final CPL game. Despite his injury, Bravo returned to bat at No. 11 in TKR's failed chase of 219. He faced just one ball, which struck his thigh, before retiring hurt, visibly emotional."When he pulled up [injured], it looked pretty serious," said TKR captain Kieron Pollard. "He's been a charismatic person and has been inspiring throughout. We just want to tell him thank you very much for all that he has done for cricket."Bravo's injury is a significant blow to TKR, who were also without Sunil Narine for the match against Kings. Narine is expected to return soon from a quad strain, while Andre Russell's workload is being managed due to a hamstring complaint.In the absence of Bravo and Narine, Pollard took on the bowling mantle, bowling his full complement of overs for the first time in the CPL since 2022. "I had to take the mantle with DJ [Bravo] going down and Russell isn't 100% fit," Pollard said.Du Plessis, who played alongside Bravo at Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, paid tribute to the CPL stalwart. "Sad to see DJ Bravo finishing in that way," du Plessis said. "He's obviously someone that I've admired for a long time. He's done so much for everyone around the Caribbean."Bravo is the most decorated player in the CPL, having won five titles in all, including three with TKR. He led TKR to back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018 before captaining St Kitts and Nevis Patriots to their first title in 2021.

Imran Tahir, the 45-year-old captain of Guyana Amazon Warriors, has become the first overseas bowler to reach 100 wickets in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The milestone came in Amazon Warriors' successful defense of 135 against Antigua and Barbuda Falcons at the Providence Stadium.Tahir's achievement is a testament to his longevity and skill. He has been a key figure for Amazon Warriors since joining the franchise in 2016, leading them to their first CPL title last season. Despite facing an injury setback this season, Tahir returned to action and guided Amazon Warriors into the playoffs once again.The veteran spinner credited his team's success to the support of the Guyana crowd. "The support we get here from people is incredible," Tahir said. "They are always here every single game and it's sold out. As a professional sportsman, you want to play somewhere where you really enjoy and that's what we felt over the years."Tahir's 100th CPL wicket came at a crucial moment in the match. With Falcons chasing 135, Tahir dismissed Hassan Khan for 10, reducing them to 41 for 3. The spinner then trapped Kofi James for 27, further denting Falcons' hopes.Amazon Warriors' batters also played a crucial role in the victory. Moeen Ali's calculated 42 off 33 balls helped propel the team to 135 for 7. The English all-rounder targeted left-arm spinner Imad Wasim for a sequence of boundaries in the 19th over, changing the momentum of the match.Meanwhile, Falcons captain Chris Green reflected on his team's group-stage exit. Despite some promising performances, Green acknowledged that fielding and a lack of big runs let them down. However, he was encouraged by the emergence of young players like Jewel Andrew, Justin Greaves, and Shamar Springer.

In a controversial turn of events, an lbw decision against Antigua And Barbuda Falcons batter Imad Wasim sparked chaos and a lengthy delay in the CPL match against Trinbago Knight Riders in Port of Spain.Umpire Christopher Taylor initially ruled Wasim not out, but a review by TKR captain Kieron Pollard showed the ball hitting leg stump. However, Wasim insisted he had edged the ball, and replays on the big screen seemed to support his claim.The third umpire reversed the decision to not out, prompting an animated discussion between Pollard and the on-field umpires. TKR coach Phil Simmons also expressed his displeasure from the dugout. The delay lasted nearly 12 minutes, with the TKR camp clearly unhappy with the outcome.Falcons coach Curtly Ambrose protested from the dugout, while Wasim himself appeared confident in his innocence. Despite the controversy, Wasim went on to hit the winning runs for the Falcons.TKR, despite the loss, remain second in the points table but have yet to secure a playoff berth. Pollard declined to comment on the incident, saying, "If I speak, I'll get into trouble."Falcons captain Chris Green was more vocal, describing the situation as "absolute chaos." He questioned the initial decision and the subsequent reversal, but ultimately expressed satisfaction with his team's victory.The incident highlights the complexities of umpiring decisions in cricket and the potential for controversy when technology is involved. It also underscores the importance of clear communication and consistency in decision-making.

Dwayne Bravo's potential farewell match in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was an emotional affair, with Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) teammates and fans paying tribute to the legendary all-rounder.Before the start of CPL 2024, Bravo had announced his retirement from the league. While he has played only two games this season, his appearance against Guyana Amazon Warriors at the Queen's Park Oval in Port-of-Spain could have been his last, according to teammate Andre Russell.Russell, who has played alongside Bravo for 130 matches, praised his impact on his own career. "Bravo has a lot to do with me being who I am today," Russell said. "He's helped me outthink batters and become a smarter bowler."TKR players and staff honored Bravo by wearing his No. 47 shirt and giving him a guard of honor before the match. Bravo contributed with a wicket and a catch, and during the innings break, he was driven around the stadium, signing balls for the crowd.Bravo is the most decorated player in the CPL, having won five titles, including three with TKR. He played a pivotal role in building the Trinidad franchise, bringing in international stars and supporting local talent.Kieron Pollard, TKR's current captain, acknowledged Bravo's contributions. "He's brought excellent cricketers of generations to the franchise and understood what's needed to build a cricket team," Pollard said.Russell, who returned from an ankle injury, made a significant impact with his 36 off 15 balls, helping TKR chase down 149. "It feels good to be back in the middle," Russell said. "I've been working hard with the support staff to get back on the park."Bravo's potential retirement from the CPL marks the end of an era for the league. His contributions as a player, captain, and mentor have left an indelible mark on the tournament and the sport of cricket in the Caribbean.

Former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard showcased his exceptional batting prowess in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on Tuesday, leading Trinbago Knight Riders to a thrilling four-wicket comeback victory over St Lucia Kings in Gros Islet.Chasing a challenging target of 188, Trinbago found themselves in a precarious position, requiring 27 runs off the last 12 balls. However, Pollard stepped up to the plate, unleashing a blistering unbeaten half-century to turn the tide in his team's favor.Facing the penultimate over bowled by Matthew Forde, Pollard unleashed his power-hitting abilities, smashing four sixes in five balls. The six balls of the over yielded a staggering 24 runs (0,6,0,6,6,6), leaving Trinbago with just three runs needed off six balls.Pollard reached a whirlwind half-century, finishing with an unbeaten 52 off just 19 deliveries. His match-winning knock earned him the well-deserved 'Player of the Match' award. Akeal Hosain (5 not out) sealed the victory with a boundary off the first ball of the final over.The triumph marked Trinbago's second win in the tournament, bringing their points tally to four from three matches. They currently occupy third place in the six-team leaderboard.Pollard's heroics highlighted his enduring impact on the game of cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket earlier this year, he continues to showcase his exceptional skills in franchise-based leagues around the world.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali is set to make his Caribbean Premier League (CPL) debut with defending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors, replacing Pakistan opener Saim Ayub. Ayub's absence is a significant blow for the Warriors, as he was their breakout star in their title-winning campaign last season.Moeen's availability is subject to Birmingham Bears' progress in the T20 Blast in the UK. If the Bears reach the Finals Day on September 14, Moeen will join the Warriors later in the tournament. Until then, New Zealand opener Tim Robinson will serve as his temporary replacement.Robinson is a hard-hitting batsman who has impressed in the Super Smash and made his T20I debut for New Zealand. He will provide the Warriors with an explosive option at the top of the order.Even after Moeen arrives, Robinson will remain with the squad, filling in for Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who will leave for international duty after the Barbados leg of the CPL. Gurbaz will return for the last leg in Guyana.In Ayub's absence, the Warriors have experimented with Gudakesh Motie and Kevin Sinclair as openers. However, the signings of Moeen and Robinson give them the option of using proper batters at the top.The Warriors have made a strong start to their title defense, winning both their games so far. Moeen's arrival will further bolster their squad and make them one of the favorites to retain their title.

Pakistan's Mohammad Amir Fumes at Imad Wasim's Lackluster Fielding in CPLPakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir expressed his frustration during the Caribbean Super League after a lackluster fielding effort by his compatriot Imad Wasim. The incident occurred during a match between the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, where both Amir and Wasim play, and the Barbados Royals.Amir bowled a short-pitched delivery to Quinton De Kock, who guided it towards the third-man boundary. Wasim, fielding at deep backward point, initially ran towards the ball but then eased up, allowing it to go for a four. Amir was visibly agitated and was heard shouting at Wasim to run. His fielding position was changed on the next ball.The Royals ultimately emerged victorious, with De Kock scoring 87 runs off just 45 deliveries. The incident sparked criticism on social media, with many questioning Wasim's commitment to the game.Pakistan's Test Coach Explains Exclusion of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem ShahMeanwhile, Pakistan's Test head coach Jason Gillespie has revealed the reasons behind the exclusion of star pace duo Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah from the playing XI for the second Test against Bangladesh.Bangladesh is in a commanding position after Day 4, needing just 143 runs to complete a historic clean sweep. Despite a strong performance in the first innings, Pakistan's bowling attack struggled against Bangladesh's openers.Gillespie explained that the team selection was based on an analysis of the pitch conditions. "We looked at conditions and what we thought was the best combination," he said. "We had Bangladesh in a bit of trouble in the first innings, but we need to improve our line and length."