David Warner failed again as St Lucia Stars lost their fifth match in the CPL.
The globalisation of cricket was highlighted again on Tuesday, when Nepalese 18-year-old Sandeep Lamichhane and Bangladeshi Mohammad Mahmudullah starred in the Caribbean Premier League.
While West Indian fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell claimed the formal plaudits and the player of the match accolade, St Kitts and Nevis Patriots’ seven-wicket victory over St Lucia Stars was built on the back of Lamichhane and Mahmudullah’s successes.
St Lucia Stars struck the highest total (226 for six) in the history of the tournament last week, which made the spinners’ collective ability to curb the run-rate ― and take wickets frequently enough ― that much more impressive.
St Kitts captain Chris Gayle won the initial battle by opting to bowl first on a challenging Gros Ilet pitch. His choice was spot on, as Cottrell’s initial breakthrough left the slow bowlers to capitalise.
Almost 15 years Lamichhane’s senior, Mahmudullah’s right-arm off-breaks were a superb complement to the teenager’s wrist spin. Together, they managed a telling haul of four for 33 in six tight, entertaining overs.
A Jamaican Defence Force soldier when away from cricket, Cottrell’s characteristic ‘salute’ celebration, of course, made a couple of appearances.
The SALUTE!! The #Playoftheday was certainly something else from Match 13 of #CPL18 #Biggestpartyinsport pic.twitter.com/ekh4pA6ffr
— CPL T20 (@CPL) August 22, 2018
The much-maligned Warner’s early departure sparked a collapse for the Stars, which ultimately saw the hosts all out for a mere 69 in 12.3 overs. Less than 40 minutes later, the Patriots knocked off the 70-run requirement for the loss of three wickets. Gayle opted not to open the batting, instead affording the talented Devon Thomas the opportunity to strike a brisk 38 not out from just 21 deliveries.
The result left St Kitts in fourth position in the six-team standings, while St Lucia is still languishing in last place. The Guyana Amazon Warriors are leading the pack thanks to their superior net run rate.
Photo: Ashley Allen – CPL T20/Getty Images
