Antigua, Aug 25 (HS): Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan marked a historic milestone in the Caribbean Premier League 2025, becoming only the second cricketer to claim 500 wickets in T20 cricket, as the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons wrapped up their home leg with a commanding seven-wicket win over St Kitts & Nevis Patriots on Sunday night.

Shakib delivered a magical spell, taking 3/11 in just two overs, including the prized wicket of Mohammad Rizwan (30) to clinch his 500th scalp. He later removed Kyle Mayers and Navin Bidaisee, helping peg Patriots down to 133/9 in 20 overs. The innings saw three run-outs in the final over as the Patriots faltered after a cautious start. Evin Lewis (32) battled through injury to return and strike big blows, but his dismissal derailed the side.

In chase, the Falcons started briskly with Rahkeem Cornwall (17 off quick boundaries) and Jewel Andrew (28) giving momentum. After Cornwall’s exit, Andrew and Karima Gore stabilized the innings. Shakib chipped in with two mighty sixes before Gore ensured victory. Dropped catches by the Patriots sealed their fate, as Gore finished unbeaten on 52, striking the winning boundary in the 19.4th over to secure the win.

With this result, the Falcons not only extended their superb run but also consolidated their position at the top of the points table.

Brief Scores:

St Kitts & Nevis Patriots: 133/9 in 20 overs (Evin Lewis 32, Mohammad Rizwan 30; Shakib Al Hasan 3/11, Salman Irshad 1/20, Jayden Seales 1/20)

Antigua & Barbuda Falcons: 137/3 in 19.4 overs (Karima Gore 52*, Jewel Andrew 28; Waqar Salamkheil 1/16, Navin Bidaisee 1/17)

Result: Falcons won by 7 wickets.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar