BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS — A masterclass century from Pakistan all-rounder Saim Ayub propelled the Jamaica Kingsmen to a thrilling 11-run victory over the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots in Match 18 of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2026 at Warner Park on Thursday night.
Sent in to bat first, the Kingsmen posted a competitive 182/7 in their 20 overs, anchored almost entirely by Ayub’s explosive 102 off 58 deliveries. The left-hander dismantled the Patriots’ attack with a dazzling display of power-hitting, clearing the ropes eight times alongside six boundaries.
Support around Ayub was fleeting, with Keemo Paul’s late-innings cameo of 25* off 13 balls and skipper Rovman Powell’s 21 off 17 being the only other notable contributions. For the Patriots, the bowling trio of Naseem Shah, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Obed McCoy picked up two wickets apiece to keep the target within reach.
In response, the Patriots mounted a strong chase, reaching 171/6 in their 20 overs. Opener Andre Fletcher spearheaded the reply with a fluent 55 off 38 balls (4×4, 3×6), while captain Jason Holder (34 off 23) and Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka (35* off 18) kept host fans hopeful in the closing overs.
However, the Kingsmen’s bowling attack held its nerve in a high-pressure final stretch. Jediah Blades and Hunain Shah led the defence with crucial two-wicket spells, while player-of-the-match Ayub and Keemo Paul chipped in with a wicket each to seal the tight 11-run win.
Match Summary:
Jamaica Kingsmen: 182/7 (20.0 overs) — Saim Ayub 102 (58), Keemo Paul 25 (13); Naseem Shah 2/32, Wanindu Hasaranga 2/35*
St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots: 171/6 (20.0 overs) — Andre Fletcher 55 (38), Dasun Shanaka 35 (18); Jediah Blades 2/28, Hunain Shah 2/34*
Result: Jamaica Kingsmen won by 11 runs.
