De Kock’s dazzling knock propels Royals to dominant win

NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC):

A masterful innings from Quinton de Kock powered the Barbados Royals to a commanding nine-wicket victory over the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in the fourth match of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), held at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in North Sound, Antigua yesterday.

Under bright, clear skies, the Falcons were asked to take the first strike but struggled to find their rhythm due to some disciplined bowling, impressive fielding and sharp catching. The host side lost two early wickets during the powerplay and then two more in quick succession, leaving them reeling at 47 for four and struggling to post a competitive target.

Jewel Andrew, the Falcons’ 17-year-old sensation, who had already impressed with a half-century in their opening match against the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, once again led the resistance. His counterattacking 48 off 35 balls, featuring three boundaries and two towering sixes, which helped the Falcons reach 145 for nine.

Obed McCoy was the pick of the bowlers, bagging three for 31. Jason Holder was equally impressive in the death overs, delivering 12 dot balls and picking up two wickets for just 21. Spin duo Theekshana and Wellalage also played crucial roles by picking up two and one wicket respectively.

The Royals’ reply was swift and ruthless, with de Kock and fellow opener Rahkeem Cornwall dismantling the Falcons’ bowling attack in the powerplay. They surged to 76 without loss in the first six overs, effectively putting the game within reach early on.

De Kock, who grew increasingly confident and inventive as the innings progressed, anchored the chase with some swashbuckling hitting. He sealed the victory in style, smashing Mohammad Amir for a boundary over extra cover, followed by a massive six straight down the ground, finishing unbeaten on 87 from just 45 deliveries. Cornwall contributed 34 from 20 balls with five fours and two sixes while Shamarh Brooks weighed in with an unbeaten 21 from 28 balls.

De Kock’s outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award with Royals captain Rovman Powell praising the South African star’s influence on the younger players.

“It’s good to start the campaign as we did, credit to the bowlers for justifying the decision and Quinny and Rakheem were exceptional in the powerplay. The guys looked sharp and ready which is nice to see. Once we have Quinny in the Royals it is a different team, and my advice to youngsters is to pick his brains and see how much they can improve from it.”