Royals Reinforced for Home Matches with Return of Key Players

The Barbados Royals, currently one of the two unbeaten teams in CPL 2024 alongside the defending champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors, will be at full strength for their upcoming home matches, starting with a showdown against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in Bridgetown on September 11.

David Miller and Keshav Maharaj have rejoined the squad, while Alick Athanaze is also fit for selection after recovering from a finger injury that sidelined him from last week’s game against the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots. Both Miller and Maharaj were rested for South Africa's upcoming tour of the UAE, but are now ready for the rest of the CPL season. Dunith Wellalage, the Sri Lankan all-rounder signed as a replacement, has returned home, although Shamarh Brooks, who stepped in for Miller, will remain with the team as a backup.

Royals head coach Trevor Penney expressed confidence about the team's lineup, noting, “With David Miller and Kesh Maharaj returning, we have our complete set of five overseas players. Alick Athanaze's fitness adds another layer of consideration for our team selection. It’s exciting to have such talent, especially with some of the youngsters performing admirably.”

The Royals have demonstrated their adaptability this season, achieving victories on varying pitch conditions. They comfortably chased down 146 in North Sound and had a nail-biting win with just one ball to spare in Basseterre. Despite recent rain in Bridgetown, captain Rovman Powell believes the conditions remain favourable for cricket. "Barbados has some of the best conditions I've seen; the practice pitches have been solid, and the players are well-prepared," he stated.

With all five overseas players available, Powell expects their franchise experience to be valuable. Both Miller and Maharaj are familiar with the Royals setup, having contributed in previous campaigns, and Powell sees their return as a significant boost. “These training sessions are essential for getting back into rhythm," he emphasised.

Maharaj will take over Wellalage's role and collaborate closely with Maheesh Theekshana, whose impressive economy rate of 4.62 highlights his effectiveness as a bowler in the tournament. As conditions are expected to slow down further, Powell acknowledged the pivotal role of spinners. “Bowlers win tournaments and batters win games,” he noted. “Our strong spin department is crucial, especially in the Caribbean, where quality spin can be challenging for batsmen.”