Naseem Shah, Abbas Afridi star as Patriots edge Royals in CPL 2025

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots registered a thrilling 12-run win over Barbados Royals in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 clash at Warner Park, Basseterre, on Thursday. The victory was shaped by a superb all-round show from captain Jason Holder, along with key contributions from Naseem Shah and Abbas Afridi.

After being sent in to bat, the Patriots posted a competitive 174/8 in their 20 overs. Kyle Mayers gave them a strong contribution with 42 off 28 balls, smashing three sixes and a four. Holder added quick runs with an aggressive 38 from 21 deliveries, laced with two sixes and four fours, while Andre Fletcher chipped in with a handy 25 off 16 balls.

In the lower order, Naseem Shah’s unbeaten 19 off 11 and Abbas Afridi’s 16 from 10 balls ensured the Patriots crossed the 170 mark. For the Royals, Ramon Simmonds impressed with figures of 3/26, while Daniel Sams picked up 2/24.

Chasing 175, the Royals looked on track but faltered under pressure, eventually being bowled out for 162 in 18.2 overs. Kadeem Alleyne top-scored with 42 off 28, including three sixes and two fours. Brandon King (22 off 17) and Rovman Powell (21 off 15) gave decent contributions, while Quinton de Kock (15), Kofi James (16), and Daniel Sams (16) added small support.

However, Jason Holder turned the game in Patriots’ favor with a brilliant spell of 4/14 in 3.2 overs, ripping through the Royals’ middle order. Naseem Shah claimed 2/32, while Navin Bidaisee also struck twice. Ashmead Nedd and Abbas Afridi picked up one wicket each to seal the victory.

Holder’s all-round display earned him the Player of the Match award as the Patriots celebrated an important win in their CPL campaign.