On Sunday, the Gros Islet Knights (GIK) delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Choiseul Craftmasters at the Gros Islet Playing Field and securing their place in the playoff qualifiers of the SPL T20 Semi-Professional League.
Chasing a modest target of 103 runs, the Knights emphatically reached their goal in just 12.3 overs, losing only 5 wickets and showcasing their potent firepower ahead of the knockout rounds.
Batting first, the Choiseul Craftmasters faltered, struggling to gain momentum as they collapsed to 42 for 7 in 7.5 overs. Despite a late rally, they could only muster 102 all out.
Sanjay Pamphile top-scored with a resilient 30, accompanied by Kurstan Jules (27) and Kurt Edward (12). GIK’s bowlers led an impressive charge, with Darvin Forde claiming three wickets for just 15 runs, Trent Belfond taking three for 25, and Tarrique Edward two for 14.
In response, GIK captain Kimani Melius made his aggressive intentions clear, blasting an explosive 59 runs off 27 balls at a staggering strike rate of 218.52, which included eight boundaries and four massive sixes. This powerful innings set the tone for an effortless chase, with support from Tyrel Chicot (12) and Khan Elcock (11).
Despite a spirited fightback from Choiseul’s Denzie Paul, who took four wickets for 25 runs, the Knights easily crossed the finish line. They have firmly booked their spot in the Eliminator 1 playoff match against the Choiseul Craftmasters on May 13, at a venue to be announced.
Earlier in the day, the South Castries Lions (SCL) clinched a decisive victory against the Mon Repos Pioneers (MRP) by four wickets, confidently chasing down a target of 192 runs.
MRP put forth a competitive total of 191 for 7, bolstered by an outstanding 51 from overseas player Gian Benjamin and solid performances from Sabinus Emmanuel (33), Johnathan Daniel (30), Cody Lesmond (27), and Christian Charlery (21).
However, SCL’s bowlers kept the total within reach, led by Kester Charlemagne (two for 29), Bolton Sayers (two for 31), and Larry Edward (two for 38).
SCL’s batting lineup functioned like a well-oiled machine, finishing at 193 for 6 in 17.4 overs with a collaborative effort. Kensley Paul spearheaded the chase with 43 runs, while Bolton Sayers, Xavier Gabriel, Corlinus Calender, and Kester Charlemagne each contributed 29 runs, sealing a well-deserved victory.
Despite both Christian Charlery (two for 28) and Shawnil Edward (two for 35) putting in a valiant effort, they could not halt SCL’s charge.
With this emphatic win, SCL now advances to the Qualifier 1 playoff match against the City Blasters on May 12, at a venue to be announced.