Barbados Royals Gear Up for CPL with Experienced Lineup
Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, set to commence on August 30 and conclude on October 7. The Barbados Royals, determined to improve upon their second-from-the-bottom finish in 2023, have retained the services of Sri Lankan mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana, despite his inability to feature in any of their matches last year.
Theekshana, a 23-year-old spin sensation, has amassed an impressive tally of 150 wickets in 145 T20 matches, boasting an economy rate of 6.68. However, the young cricketer has yet to make his CPL debut, having been unable to secure a no-objection certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket two years ago when selected by the Trinbago Knight Riders. Last year, a scheduling conflict with the Asia Cup forced him to withdraw from the tournament.
Joining Theekshana in the Barbados Royals’ squad are several high-profile players, including West Indies T20 captain Rovman Powell, who has previously tasted success in the CPL, and all-rounder Jason Holder, who will bolster the team’s all-round capabilities. South African duo Quinton de Kock and David Miller, who were absent from the Royals’ lineup in 2023, have returned to the fold, further strengthening the team’s batting depth.
“We are excited to have such an experienced and talented lineup for the upcoming CPL season,” said the Barbados Royals’ team manager. “With the addition of Theekshana, Holder, and our South African stars, we believe we have the right mix of players to mount a serious challenge for the title.”
The Royals have also secured the services of Afghan fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, who will make his return to the CPL after a three-year hiatus, looking to add to his impressive tally of 220 T20 wickets. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who represented the sister franchise Rajasthan Royals in the recent IPL, completes the squad’s diverse and experienced lineup.
With the CPL draft scheduled for July, the Barbados Royals have confirmed 14 players on their roster, leaving them with three spots to fill as they aim to mount a serious challenge for the title this year.
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