Sir Viv meets CPL stars

Members of the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons and the Trinbago Knight Riders received words of inspiration from the great Sir Vivian Richards on Wednesday morning.

The former West Indies captain and batting legend, known worldwide as ‘The Master Blaster,’ spoke to both camps on the eve of their Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL)  clash — due to be played on Thursday night at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua & Barbuda, from 7:00 pm.

“I’m a part of the Falcons family, so I came here to see my team and show my support for the boys as they head into the last home game,” said the West Indies icon. “I’m really impressed with the talent I’m seeing and just wanted let them know that Sir Viv is still backing them despite the tough start.

“I spent some time with the boys at TKR as well. It’s also about helping to develop all West Indies talent, meet them and talk with them. I want what’s best for the West Indies, and these youngsters I met with today are very talented. They are the future.”

The Falcons, newcomers to the CPL for the 2024 season, have had a tough start to the season, losing four on the trot at home.

TKR, meanwhile, have played just once. The four-time champions and 2023 runners-up defeated the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots by 44 runs.

Despite the poor start, the Falcons lineup includes one of the most exciting young Caribbean players, in the person of Jewel Andrew. Just 17 years old, he has made 123 runs from just 96 balls in his first four CPL matches, averaging 41.

TKR, on the other hand, are anchored by superstar wicketkeeper-batsman Nichols Pooran. The 28-year-old Trinidadian recently surpassed Chris Gayle for the most T20 sixes hit in a single calendar year, a feat which would certainly have impressed Sir Viv.

The meet and greet events with Sir Viv were organised by Falcons director of media Philip Spooner, and TKR head coach Phil Simmons.

(PR/TF)