The SPL finals are set after a run fest at the Francis “Baba” Lastic Grounds in Qualifier 2 on Sunday night. In another chapter of the West Coast rivalry, Choiseul Craft Masters topped Soufriere Titans for a comfortable victory.
The Men In Orange had just defeated Micoud Eagles in Tuesday’s Eliminator. Soufriere Titans, after losing to City Blasters in Qualifier 1, got another chance at the same venue.
Batting first, Craft Masters opened strongly, with openers Jason Simon and Alick Athanaze combining for 96 runs. When Simon fell for 57 off 25, Athanaze carried on.
Making his SPL debut, Athanaze scored 138 off 57 with 13 sixes and 10 fours. With three other 20-plus contributions, his Man of the Match effort took Choisuel to a record 290, the SPL’s highest total.
Soufriere faced a huge chase. Many Titans top‑order batsmen fell trying for quick runs, especially against Kevin Sinclair, leaving them at 98-6 after 8.2 overs. Young Jeanille Williams took four wickets but gave up 52 runs.
At number seven, Mateo Boulogne smashed 80 off 41, with six fours and seven sixes, most with Kevin Gassie, unbeaten on 45 off 30. Still, Titans fell 62 short. Among high run rates, Shawnil Edward’s 2-33 stood out.
In a post-match interview, Man of the Match Athanaze credited the surface and atmosphere:
“To be honest, it wasn’t much of an acclimatisation for me. I came in yesterday and had to play today. The vibe is good, the competition is good, and the wicket is good as well. So, you know, it’s a good place to play cricket,” he said.
Craft Masters now face the undefeated City Blasters for the SPL 6 title and bragging rights.
