McKenzie, Russell Power Jamaica Kingsmen to First Win of CPL 2026

Kirk McKenzie’s explosive half-century and a late assault from Andre Russell and Rovman Powell helped Jamaica Kingsmen secure their first victory of CPL 2026, defeating Trinbago Knight Riders by five wickets with eight balls to spare.

Chasing 183, Kingsmen were powered by McKenzie, who smashed 69 off just 25 deliveries to put his side firmly in control early in the innings.

His blistering knock left Jamaica needing only 90 runs from the final 13 overs with nine wickets in hand. However, Trinbago fought back through disciplined spin bowling from Sunil Narine, Usman Tariq and Akeal Hosein.

The Kingsmen struggled to score freely during the middle overs, losing three wickets while adding only 36 runs in eight overs. With 54 needed from the final 30 balls, the match appeared to be shifting back in Trinbago’s favour.

Russell and Powell then produced a decisive counterattack.

The pair smashed 45 runs in just two overs, combining for five fours and three sixes to swing the momentum dramatically. Russell struck 27 from 15 balls before Terrance Hinds dismissed him, but Powell remained unbeaten on 29 from 22 deliveries to guide Jamaica home.

Earlier, Trinbago Knight Riders were restricted to 182 for 6 after being asked to bat first.

The Knight Riders made a cautious start, reaching only 69 runs in the opening 10 overs. Colin Munro struggled for fluency, scoring 16 from 26 balls, while Alex Hales contributed 29 off 21.

Kieron Pollard changed the complexion of the innings in the 13th over, launching Vitel Lawes for four consecutive boundaries — a four followed by three sixes.

Nicholas Pooran continued the attack in the following over, smashing two sixes off Odean Smith. Pollard and Pooran added 67 runs for the third wicket, putting Trinbago in a strong position.

Sunil Narine then provided a late boost with an unbeaten 19 off just eight balls as TKR finished on 182 for 6.

However, McKenzie’s explosive start and the late fireworks from Russell and Powell ensured that the total was not enough.

Jamaica Kingsmen’s victory gives them their first points of CPL 2026, while Trinbago Knight Riders will be left to rue their missed opportunities after failing to defend a competitive total.