*THE CARIBBEAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2023- MATCH 1: SAINT LUCIA KINGS VS JAMAICA TALLAHWAHS PREVIEW*
*THE BUILD UP:*
The start of a fresh tournament with newer set of players, newer competitors all set to clash against one another in a bid to give us an opening to remember. It’s the CPL folks, the thrills of the Caribbean Islands hosting a T20 tournament is in itself an exciting prospect. The very place from where the shortest format of the game was taken to new heights, is only getting ready for another new and enthralling experience.
The Tallahwahs were crowned the champions of the tournament, topping up against all other units and emerging victorious. They had a run to remember and cherish, at the same time and it makes sense why they’d like to begin their march on a positive note- getting off the blocks in their title defense. The Saint Lucia on the other hand, would be keen on avenging the loss first up which they got against this very opposition the last time they clashed in an all important Eliminator.
Expecting this one to be a close contest which would keep the viewers and fanatics of the game, glued to their screens.
*ST LUCIA PROBABLE XI:*
Faf du Plessis (c), Roston Chase, Johnson Charles (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Kimani Milues, Sikandar Raza, Jeavor Royal, Roshon Primus, Matthew Forde, Peter Hatzoglou, Chris Sole
Any side that has Faf at the helm of things and as an opener looks a settled one. The protea has this charm about him that makes him a special pick. He has the experience of playing in this tournament and performing with freedom. His capabilities as somebody who can blast away when in groove makes him an unforgettable member of the side and he would be keen on starting right and deliver a win for his side.
The onus will be on Alzarri Joseph, the tall Windies pacer, to kickstart proceedings on the right note and strike early. The top order of the Talhawahs is a promising one and St Lucia fans should look to create a rut and dismiss them for as soon as possible. Alongside him, the presence of Raza to weave his magic around with his magical fingers and his golden arm is key. Wherever he goes, he performs and leaves an imprint. Something similar can be expected even tomorrow.
*JAMAICA PROBABLE XI:*
Brandon King (c), Fabian Allen, Amir Jangoo (wk), Chris Green, Mohammad Amir, Hayden Walsh, Raymon Reifer, Kirk McKenzie, Jermaine Blackwood, Shamarh Brooks, Ben Cutting
Mohammad Amir, with his left arm slinging action and his ability to rock the opposition with the new ball will be watched closely. Chris Green should play the role of the support bowler who’d aid the Pakistani speedster with the brand new cherry and the two will be a threat for the opposition, who will be keen upon completing the revenge. The fact that they are seasoned cricketers with tons of T20 Cricket experience backing them only makes it easier for them to get into their groove soon.
Excited to watch King lead this side in the absence of a few senior pros. He has been in decent nick with the bat and his career best T20 score last time he stepped onto the cricket field vs India was one to remember. Keeping the momentum going and form firm, the skipper of Jamaica would look to make his presence felt and stamp his authority.
*MY PREDICTIONS:*
*FOR ST LUCIA:*
Highest run getter- Faf Duplisses/Sikandar Raza
Highest wicket taker- Alzarri Joseph/Sikandar Raza
*FOR JAMAICA:*
Highest run getter- Brandon King/Shamarh Brooks
Highest wicket taker- Mohammad Amir/Hayden Walsh
*FOR THIS GAME:*
Jamaica to start right and win