Cricket

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.

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) have received a significant boost with the return of Chris Jordan for the home leg of the CPL 2024, starting on September 18. The England international, who previously played for TKR in 2019, will replace injured USA fast bowler Ali Khan.Jordan's return is a welcome addition to TKR's bowling attack, having taken seven wickets in five matches during their 2019 campaign. His experience and skill will be crucial as TKR aims to improve upon their performance in the tournament.Meanwhile, defending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors have suffered a setback with captain Imran Tahir ruled out for approximately ten days due to injury. Tahir, the oldest player in the CPL at 45, has been a key figure for Amazon Warriors, but his absence will be a significant blow.Shai Hope, who captained the team in Tahir's absence in their last match, will continue to lead the side. However, the team will also miss the services of all-rounder Romario Shepherd, who is recovering from a toe injury.To compensate for Tahir's absence, Amazon Warriors have signed Nathan Sowter, an Australia-born English wristspinner. Sowter has impressed in franchise cricket, winning back-to-back titles with Oval Invincibles under Tom Moody.Despite the setbacks, Amazon Warriors remain confident in their ability to perform well. Hope acknowledged the importance of Tahir's absence but emphasized the need for the team to step up and find ways to compensate for his loss.

Jacques Kallis, the legendary South African all-rounder, is renowned for his exceptional talent and unwavering focus. A recent anecdote shared by former Pakistan spinner Imran Tahir sheds light on Kallis's remarkable abilities and the unique approach he adopted before batting.During an online chat with former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif, Tahir recounted an incident from his early Test career. Playing against Sri Lanka in Cape Town, Tahir witnessed Kallis fast asleep in the dressing room just before he was due to bat at number three.Tahir's initial concern turned into astonishment as he observed Kallis's nonchalant demeanor. Despite the gravity of the situation, Kallis remained unperturbed. As soon as Alviro Petersen was dismissed, Kallis opened his eyes, grabbed his bat, and casually walked out to the crease.To Tahir's disbelief, Kallis proceeded to score an unbeaten 237, leaving him in a state of shock. Latif remarked that such behavior would have resulted in a hefty fine in the Pakistan dressing room, while Tahir quipped that the player would have been banned from playing altogether.Kallis's ability to remain calm and focused under pressure is a testament to his exceptional mental strength. His unique approach to batting, which involved sleeping before an innings, allowed him to clear his mind and enter the crease with a clear and composed mindset.This anecdote highlights the extraordinary talent and dedication that made Jacques Kallis one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. His ability to perform at the highest level, even in the most challenging situations, is a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.

Guyana Amazon Warriors Bolster Squad with Gurbaz, Retain Core for CPL 2024The Guyana Amazon Warriors have made significant moves in preparation for the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 season, signing Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and retaining key players from their championship-winning squad.Gurbaz, who previously played for the Warriors in 2022, returns to the franchise after a successful stint with the Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In six matches for the Warriors last season, he amassed 157 runs, including two half-centuries.The Warriors have also retained several overseas players who played pivotal roles in their maiden CPL title triumph last year. Pakistan batters Saim Ayub and Azam Khan, along with South African all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius, will continue to represent the franchise.Among the West Indies players retained are star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope, all-rounder Romario Shepherd, and fast bowler Keemo Paul. These players have been instrumental in the Warriors' success over the years.In total, the Warriors have signed 14 players so far, leaving them with three more spots to fill at the draft in July. The franchise will be eager to add depth to their squad and find the right balance to defend their title.The Warriors' title defense will begin on August 30 against the new Antigua and Barbuda Falcons franchise in North Sound. The 2024 CPL season will run from August 29 to October 6, with matches taking place in Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago. The final will be held at the National Stadium in Providence, Guyana.With a strong core of players and the addition of Gurbaz, the Guyana Amazon Warriors are well-positioned to make a strong run in CPL 2024 and defend their championship.