CPL 2024 Match 23 Review: Warriors defeat Falcons to get into Playoffs

Guyana Amazon Warriors, the reigning champions, defeated Antigua & Barbuda Falcons by a margin of 27 runs to secure a spot in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL 2024) playoffs. The Falcons' loss means they are out of the running, and the top four teams for this year's competition are confirmed. 

By limiting the Warriors to 135/7 after winning the toss and choosing to field first, the Falcons gave themselves a genuine chance to pull off an unexpected victory. Only eventual Player of the Match Moeen Ali was able to really hurt the Warriors with the bat.

The Falcon's bowling attack spread the wickets around and did a good job of limiting the Warriors' batting card. Joshua James's brilliant run-out ended the recently retired England international's innings at 42 off 33 balls, which included three fours and the same amount of sixes. This left the mark within reach. 

Guyana Amazon Warriors wins the 23rd CPL 2024:

The Falcons' hitting lineup saw a lot of starts but ultimately suffered since none of those runs were translated into a significant score. The Warriors split the spoils as wickets dropped often. South African seamer Dwayne Pretorious claimed three wickets in just 2.5 overs, while Ali amassed 3/9 with his voluptuous off-spin. Moeen Ali gave a brilliant performance in both sports and said, "The crowd is unbelievable at home, it surprised me nicely." He also called it a "honour" to play for the Warriors.

The Falcons' 2024 campaign comes to an end with this loss; while they had their moments, their record of just three victories in ten games leaves them with a lot of questions. The home crowd enthusiastically cheered on the Warriors, who looked like a formidable team in every aspect of the game. By the conclusion of the night, they had every reason to think a title defence was definitely in the works.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors, Barbados Royals, Saint Lucia Kings, and Trinbago Knight Riders will compete in the 2024 CPL Playoffs.

Watch this space for more CPL 2024 news and updates.