In the realm of world cricket, players earn their reputation through their performances, and Nicholas Pooran has carved out a significant identity for himself as a six-hitting maestro. Renowned for his explosive batting, Pooran has become a formidable force that bowlers dread facing. On August 31, 2024, during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Pooran showcased his might by smashing an incredible number of sixes, setting a new record by surpassing the legendary Chris Gayle.
Thrilling Encounter in CPL 2024
The match in focus was between Trinbago Knight Riders and St. Kitts, as the CPL 2024 kicked off with excitement. Trinbago Knight Riders batted first, with Pooran at the crease after the explosive opening partnership between Sunil Narine and Jason Roy, who had amassed 44 runs in just 4 overs. Narine alone contributed a sensational 38 runs from just 19 balls, hitting four sixes and three fours before his dismissal, paving the way for Pooran’s onslaught.
Record-Breaking Innings
As Nicholas Pooran strode to the crease, the atmosphere electric with anticipation, he unleashed a tumultuous assault on the St. Kitts bowlers. They struggled to contain his explosive batting, as Pooran launched a relentless attack that saw him accumulate runs quickly. Within just 43 balls, he posted a staggering 97 runs at a strike rate of 225.58, featuring 9 sixes and 7 fours. His aggressive approach was a spectacle, intensifying with each towering six.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Balls Faced | 43 |
| Runs Scored | 97 |
| Fours | 7 |
| Sixes | 9 |
Breaking Chris Gayle’s Record
Although Nicholas Pooran fell just 3 runs short of his third T20 century, he achieved a monumental milestone by breaking Chris Gayle’s long-standing record for the most sixes in a calendar year. In 2015, Gayle had hit 135 sixes, a feat that remained unmatched until Pooran recorded 139 sixes in the ongoing 2024 season.
CPL’s Historic High Score
Pooran’s impressive innings were complemented by a partnership with Kaysi Karty, who also contributed significantly. Together, they forged a robust partnership of 122 runs for the fourth wicket, with Karty scoring an unbeaten 73 off 35 balls, featuring 9 fours and 3 sixes. Their collective efforts propelled the Trinbago Knight Riders to an exceptional total of 250 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 20 overs, marking the third-highest score in CPL history. For context, the record of 267 runs remains with the Trinbago Knight Riders, while the second-highest score of 255 runs belongs to Jamaica Tallawahs.
