CPL 2024 [WATCH]: Alick Athanaze gets run out by Sam Billings after a bizarre mid-pitch collision with Quinton de Kock

In the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 clash between Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and Barbados Royals at Bridgetown, wicketkeeper Sam Billings delivered a standout moment of brilliance.

Sam Billings’ quick thinking secures crucial run-out

In the 10th over, while BR were cruising at 73/1, Quinton de Kock attempted a premeditated scoop shot off a full-length delivery outside off-stump. The ball took an inside edge and rolled to Billings’ right behind the stumps. Seeing an opportunity, Billings quickly pounced on the ball and, with impeccable precision, threw the stumps down to catch Alick Athanaze well short of his ground.🤡 This key run-out ended a threatဣening 72-run partnership, giving the Falcons a much-needed breakthrough as Athanaze, set on 34, was forced to depart.

Quinton de Kock and Alick Athanaze’s unfortunate collision

The run-out itself was a result of a chaotic mix-up between the batters, De Kock and Athanaze. Both players, caught off-guard, attempted a single after De Kock’s shot, but disaster struck when they collided midway through the pitch. The confusion between the batters gave Billings ꧟the precious extra seconds needed to pick up the ball and make the throw, dismissing Athanaze. The two batters were visibly frustrated, with de Kock offering an immediate apology, but the damage had already been done. The collision turned the tide of the game, putting Royals in a precarious position at a critical juncture of the chase.

Here’s the video:

Billings said NOT TODAY ROYALS! 👀

— CPL T20 (@CPL)

Also WATCH: Alzarri Joseph engages😼 in heated argument with umpire during thrilling clash between Saint Lucia Kings and 💯Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL 2024

De Kock falls shortly after as rain ends play early

The run-out of Athanaze was just the beginning of the Royals’ troubles, as De Kock fell two overs later for 48, leaving his team at 93/3 in the 12th over. However, the experienced duo of Rovman Powell and David Miller steadied the ship, adding an unbeaten 34 off 17 balls. Just as the Royals 🍸looked set to regain control, persistent rain forced the game to a premature end. The D/L method came into play, and the Royals were declared the winners by 10 runs.

Sam Billings’ fifty in vain as Antigua and Barbuda Falcons continue to struggle

Earlier in the match, Billings had overcome a difficult start to the CPL season by scoring his first half-century. The 33-year-old wicketkeeper-batter struck a composed 56 off 43 balls, including five boundaries and a six, helping the Falcons post a competitive 176/5 in their 20 overs. Despite ꧒his valiant effort, the Falcons fell short once again, suffering their fifth defeat of the tournament. Billings’ form with the bat has seen an improvement, with his tally for the season reaching 124 runs in seven matches at an average of 20.66. Nevertheless, the Falcons remaiཧns second from the bottom on the points table, continuing their difficult campaign.

Also READ: CPL 20♓24: Quinton de🃏 Kock’s fireworks secure Barbados Royals’ victory over Antigua and Barbuda