TKR fall short of victory despite delivering a spirited performance | BR vs TKR Match Review
TKR 166/8 in 20 Overs [Nicholas Pooran 45(44), Kieron Pollard 36(25); Chris Green 3/9 in 4 Overs] lost to BR 172/3 in 19 Overs [Quinton de Kock 55(35), Sherfane Rutherford 32(26); Usman Tariq 2/23 in 4 Overs] by 7 wickets
The Trinbago Knight Riders faced off against the Barbados Royals in their CPL 2025 clash, aiming to bounce back and return to winning ways. The atmosphere was electric as fans packed in to support their team, rallying behind a side that has consistently shown resilience and fighting spirit throughout the season. With a blend of seasoned match-winners and in-form performers, TKR took the field determined to deliver another all-round performance. The team’s versatility and confidence have been a hallmark this season, and the players carried that belief with them as they set out to put on a tremendous show.
Batting first, TKR were tested early but showed their depth and character. Captain Nicholas Pooran anchored the innings with a composed 45 off 44 balls, while Kieron Pollard once again displayed his trademark power, striking a valuable 36 off 25 deliveries to lift the scoring rate. Despite a few quick wickets in between, the middle order fought hard to keep the scoreboard moving. Akeal Hoseinadded handy runs at the back end as he finished off the innings with some explosive blows, helping TKR post a competitive 166/8 on the board, ensuring the bowlers had a solid target to defend.
With the ball in hand, TKR looked to make early inroads and keep the Royals under pressure. Usman Tariq stood out with another impressive spell, picking up 2/23 and applying pressure through his clever variations, while Sunil Narine and Andre Russell kept the intensity high through the middle overs. The bowlers fought hard, creating chances and stretching the chase deep into the 19th over, as the fielders backed them up with energy and commitment. In the end, BR managed to sneak past the target, but it was only after a fierce contest where TKR refused to back down. The performance reflected the team’s never-say-die attitude, and the Knight Riders will take plenty of positives as they look ahead to the next challenge.