The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons began their CPL 2026 campaign with a nail-biting two-wicket victory over the Jamaica Kingsmen at the Arnos Vale Ground in St Vincent. Chasing a target of 167, the Falcons needed two runs off the final delivery of the match. Shamar Springer successfully flicked a full-length ball from Hunain Shah toward long-on, where a fumble by Rovman Powell allowed the batters to complete the winning second run.
Earlier, the Jamaica Kingsmen were sent into bat and reached a competitive total of 167/7 in their 20 overs, bolstered by Reeza Hendricks, who scored 42 off 25 balls, and Rovman Powell, who contributed 47 from 37 deliveries. Alzarri Joseph led the Falcons' bowling effort with figures of 3-34.
The Falcons' chase faced early pressure as Keemo Paul dismissed openers Evin Lewis and Rahkeem Cornwall. However, a strong third-wicket partnership between Tim Robinson and Tajinder Dhillon shifted the momentum in favor of the Falcons. Andre Russell eventually broke the stand, reaching his 100th CPL wicket in the process, when he induced an edge from Dhillon, who departed for 62 off 37 balls. Robinson contributed 40 runs to the effort.
Despite being in a commanding position needing only nine runs off ten balls with five wickets remaining, the Falcons nearly collapsed in the final overs. Hunain Shah struck twice in the last over, removing Jahmar Hamilton and Usama Mir. After Alzarri Joseph managed a single off the fifth ball, Springer held his nerve to secure the victory on the final delivery.
The Falcons appeared to be cruising in the chase, needing 9 to win off 10 balls with five wickets in hand.
Among the batters still available was Tajinder Dhillon, whose sprightly half-century and a 64-run partnership with Tim Robinson had put the chase in control.
