Antigua and Barbuda Falcons climbed to the summit of the CPL 2026 standings after Shadab Khan produced a stunning late assault to secure victory over Trinbago Knight Riders at North Sound.
Chasing 166, Falcons found themselves under serious pressure at 92 for 5 when Shadab arrived at the crease. The Pakistan allrounder responded with an unbeaten 52 from only 20 deliveries, joining Kusal Perera, who finished on 34 not out, in a decisive 76 run stand from 33 balls.
TKR appeared to be in control with Falcons requiring 37 from the final three overs. That advantage disappeared during a costly 18th over from Nathan Edward, which yielded 27 runs. Shadab cleared the boundary three times within the first four deliveries before later striking two more sixes against Terrance Hinds to complete the chase with nine balls remaining. His match changing display also earned him the Player of the Match award.
The Falcons had started quickly through Rahkeem Cornwall, who collected 14 from the opening over before being run out immediately in the next. Amir Jangoo contributed 31 from 36, while Evin Lewis made 10 and Hasan Nawaz scored one. Moeen Ali’s dismissal early in the 13th left Falcons needing another 74 runs, before Shadab and Perera completely altered the contest.
Earlier, TKR reached 165 for 6 after being asked to bat. Colin Munro led the early scoring with 46 from 33 balls, while Nicholas Pooran provided the biggest burst with 43 from just 17.
Cornwall removed Alex Hales and Matthew Breetzke, while Joshua James accounted for Kieron Pollard, who made nine from 16 deliveries. Sunil Narine remained unbeaten on 19 and Hinds added 14 not out during a closing 34 run partnership.
The total looked competitive, but Shadab’s extraordinary finish ensured Falcons left North Sound with the victory and first place in the standings.
