CPL final 2025: TKR crowned kings again!

PROVIDENCE: Under the floodlights of a packed Providence Stadium, the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) scripted a historic triumph, clinching their fifth Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title with a hard-fought 3-wicket win over the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) in a thrilling final that had all the drama cricket fans could ask for.

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Chasing a modest 131-run target, TKR overcame early hiccups and pressure moments to cross the finish line in 18 overs, thanks to a nerveless late burst from Player of the Match Akeal Hosein, who sealed it with a six and a four.

A BATTLE THAT SWUNG LIKE A PENDULUM

GAW, opting to bat first in home conditions, managed only 130/8 in their 20 overs, a total that looked under-par even before the dew settled. Their decision to bat first backfired as TKR’s spinners, led by Hosein, put the squeeze on from the get-go.

Despite a spirited effort from the Warriors’ bowlers, who made regular breakthroughs and even dismissed big guns Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell in the same over, it wasn’t enough. Nicholas Pooran’s captaincy, Sunil Narine’s calculated cameo, and Hosein’s calmness under pressure took TKR across the line.

THE ROAD TO GLORY

TKR’s journey to the trophy wasn’t smooth sailing. Coming through the eliminator route, they had to battle hard – and did so with resilience, teamwork, and experience. Pooran shone bright with match-winning knocks in the playoffs, while veterans like Pollard and Narine brought their A-game when it mattered most.

Pollard, who was named Player of the Series, turned back the clock with vintage power-hitting and clutch performances throughout the tournament. This title win is particularly special for TKR – it’s their first CPL title won outside Trinidad.

POST-MATCH REACTIONS

Nicholas Pooran (TKR Captain) said, “Thirteen years I’ve waited for this. We were written off, called too old, but we believed in each other. This is for Trinidad, this is for every single person who stood by us.”

Kieron Pollard (Player of the Series) added, “People boo, people doubt, but we just play cricket. At 38, I still love this game. This is for my family, for the team, and for every fan who traveled with us. We’ve gone through a lot, but this moment makes it worth it.”

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Akeal Hosein (Player of the Match), topped with, “Special, special moment. It’s been a tough season personally, but I backed myself and delivered when it mattered. This is for Sunil (Narine), who supported me every step of the way.”

Imran Tahir (GAW Captain), accepting defeat graciously, said, “We fought hard, but we were 20 runs short. Credit to TKR. They were simply better today. Proud of my team, but congratulations to the champions.”