CPL 2026: Antigua and Barbuda Falcons Edge Jamaica Kingsmen in Last-Ball Opener
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons opened the 2026 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season with a dramatic final-ball victory against the Jamaica Kingsmen in Saint Vincent. Chasing a target of 168, the Falcons secured the win on the last delivery after surviving a tense final over from Hunain Shah.
What Happened
After being restricted to 167/7 by a disciplined Falcons bowling unit, the Jamaica Kingsmen mounted a late fightback in the field. The Falcons required six runs in the final over, but Hunain Shah brought the Kingsmen back into contention by dismissing Jahmar Hamilton and Usama Mir on consecutive deliveries at the boundary. On the final ball, Shamar Springer managed to run two runs following a misfield by Kingsmen captain Rovman Powell at long-on, sealing the win for Antigua & Barbuda Falcons.
Earlier in the match, the Kingsmen innings struggled for momentum aside from Reeza Hendricks, who scored 42 off 25 balls after a 28-run sixth over against Karima Gore, and Rovman Powell, who compiled a measured 47. A late acceleration produced 54 runs from the final four overs, aided by a six-ball cameo from Keemo Paul. In response, Rahkeem Cornwall provided early momentum before Tajinder Singh struck 62 off 37 balls, combining with Tim Robinson for a crucial 64-run third-wicket partnership. Despite Andre Russell taking his 100th and 101st CPL wickets and Keemo Paul claiming 3/29, the Falcons managed to cross the line.
Key Highlights
- Match Result: Antigua & Barbuda Falcons defeated Jamaica Kingsmen on the final ball in Saint Vincent while chasing a target of 168.
- Top Performer with the Bat: Tajinder Singh led the Falcons’ chase with 62 runs off 37 deliveries.
- Key Bowling Returns: Alzarri Joseph took 3/34, Jayden Seales claimed 1/19, and Usama Mir returned 1/17 for the Falcons, while Keemo Paul picked up 3/29 for the Kingsmen.
- Milestone Achievement: Andre Russell took his 100th and 101st career CPL wickets by dismissing Tim Robinson and Tajinder Singh.
- Decisive Moment: Shamar Springer completed two runs off the final delivery following a misfield by Rovman Powell.
Why This Matters
This tournament-opening result provides Antigua & Barbuda Falcons with early momentum in the CPL 2026 campaign following a closely contested chase. The match also saw notable individual milestones, including Andre Russell reaching 101 career wickets in the competition.
What to Watch Next
Both teams will continue their campaigns in the Caribbean Premier League 2026, with the Jamaica Kingsmen looking to bounce back from their opening defeat and the Falcons aiming to build on their winning start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the opening match of CPL 2026?
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons won the match against the Jamaica Kingsmen on the final ball in Saint Vincent.
Who was the top run-scorer in the Falcons’ innings?
Tajinder Singh was the top scorer for the Falcons, making 62 runs off 37 balls.
What milestone did Andre Russell reach in this match?
Andre Russell secured his 100th and 101st wickets in the Caribbean Premier League during his four one-over spells.
Source: CricTracker