The Saint Lucia Kings (SLK) advanced to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 final for the first time in three years, defeating the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) by 15 runs via the DLS method in a rain-affected first qualifier.
Opting to bat first, SLK posted an imposing total of 198/5, driven by superb half-centuries from openers Johnson Charles and captain Faf du Plessis. Charles led the charge with an explosive 79 off 45 balls, while du Plessis contributed 57 off 36 deliveries, striking five boundaries and three sixes.
However, rain disrupted the match, and under the DLS method, GAW were set a revised target of 122 runs in 13 overs. The Kings’ bowlers made early breakthroughs, removing both GAW openers by the time the score reached 51. SLK continued to tighten their grip on the match by claiming key wickets, including those of Shai Hope and Dwaine Pretorius, before GAW could cross 77.
Alzarri Joseph, Noor Ahmad, David Wiese, and Roston Chase each claimed a wicket, as the Warriors struggled to build momentum. GAW ended their innings on 106/4, falling short by 15 runs, allowing the Kings to secure a spot in the CPL final.
Johnson Charles was named Player of the Match for his outstanding batting performance. The Kings now await the winner of the second qualifier between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and Barbados Royals, who will face them in the final on October 7.
