Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir propel Falcons to victory over Patriots in CPL 2024 clash

Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim has showcased an all-round performance, complemented by left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir's exceptional spell, as the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons edged out the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in a thrilling CPL 2024 encounter on Sunday in Basseterre.

After being asked to bat first, the Patriots managed to post a total of 153 runs, losing eight wickets. Their innings saw a dramatic shift as they faltered at 114 runs with six wickets down in the 18th over. Mikyle Louis emerged as a savior for his side and scored a blistering 63 off 36 balls, including two boundaries and seven sixes, to propel the team to a decent score.

Mohammad Amir was outstanding with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets. His spell saw the dismissals of opening batter Evin Lewis (5), skipper Andre Fletcher (9), and Dominic Drakes (2). Amir's four-over spell cost him 27 runs at an economy rate of 6.75. Imad Wasim also made a significant impact with the ball, taking two wickets – Mikyle Louis (63) and Veerasammy Permaul (0) – conceding 24 runs in his four overs at an economy rate of 6.

In response, the Falcons' opening partnership set a strong foundation, reaching 55 runs within the fifth over. However, a dramatic turn of events saw the team struggling at 140 runs with eight wickets down in 18.2 overs. 

Imad contributed with the bat, scoring 17 runs from 13 balls, including two boundaries. Fabian Allen also played a crucial role, adding 13 runs from 7 balls. Their combined efforts in the end ensured the Falcons chased down the target with just two balls to spare.

Imad Wasim's all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match accolade.