The much-anticipated Caribbean Premier League (CPL) clash between the Barbados Royals and the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons is officially on after receiving the all-clear following the safe passage of Hurricane Erin through the region.
The showdown, scheduled to take place at the picturesque Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, was in doubt as the menacing weather system made its way across the region. It brought heavy showers and strong winds to the island late Friday and into Saturday morning, but conditions have cleared, and the ground is fit for play. Officials from CPL and the Falcons management have worked around the clock to put systems in place and have indicated a prompt start is expected at 7pm.
For Antigua and Barbuda, this match holds extra weight. It’s their first home fixture of the season, and they will look to rebound after their first-round defeat to St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in Basseterre on Thursday night. It will also signal the return of big-hitting allrounder Rahkeem Cornwall to his home franchise after he made the switch from Barbados Royals – where he made a famous century in the 2023 season.
On the Barbados Royals end, they will be going after their title in the 13th season of the tournament, they will be without talisman Jason Holder, who has departed to captain St Kitts and Nevis. They will be banking heavily on skipper Rovman Powell and experienced new recruits Brandon King and Sherfane Rutherford; as well as rookies Zishan Motara, Johann Layne and Kadeem Alleyne, who all impressed in the Breakout developmental tournament which was played in May.
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