The 2024 Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) has concluded with Barbados Royals, a franchise of Rajasthan Royals, clinching the coveted trophy. In a thrilling final held on August 29, Barbados Royals triumphed over the KKR franchise, Trinbago Knight Riders, by 4 wickets. This match was a nail-biter, as both teams struggled to score 100 runs, showcasing the intensity and competitive spirit of the tournament.
Match Overview
Trinbago Knight Riders batted first, setting a modest target of 94 runs. However, Barbados Royals managed to chase down this total with 30 balls to spare, although they lost 6 wickets in the process. At one point, it seemed that the match was slipping away from them, but the stellar performance by Sri Lankan star Chamari Athapaththu turned the tide.
The Star Players
The final match of WCPL 2024 saw exceptional performances from two key players, Chamari Athapaththu and Alia Eileen. After winning the toss, Barbados captain Hayley Matthews opted to bowl first, a decision that proved pivotal. Alia’s outstanding bowling led to Trinbago Knight Riders crumbling to a mere 93 runs, as she claimed 4 wickets for just 21 runs in her 4 overs. Hayley Matthews also contributed significantly, securing 2 wickets while conceding just 13 runs in her 4 overs.
Chamari’s Heroics
During the chase for 94 runs, Barbados started confidently with a partnership of 48 runs for the first wicket. However, the pressure mounted as the team lost 5 wickets for only 37 runs, putting them in a precarious position. This is where Chamari Athapaththu demonstrated her prowess, scoring a crucial 39 runs off 47 balls. Her remarkable innings anchored the team and ultimately led them to victory.
Key Stats from the Final
| Team | Innings | Runs Scored | Wickets Lost | Top Performer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trinbago Knight Riders | 1st Innings | 93 | All Out | — |
| Barbados Royals | 2nd Innings | 95 | 6 | Chamari Athapaththu (39 runs) |
Conclusion
The WCPL 2024 final was a showcase of resilience and outstanding talent, particularly from players like Chamari Athapaththu and Alia Eileen. Their contributions played an instrumental role in securing Barbados Royals’ victory, marking a significant achievement for the franchise. As the tournament wraps up, the fans eagerly await the next season, hoping for more thrilling matches and exceptional performances.
