The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons have etched their names into history, clinching their first Caribbean Premier League title with an eight-wicket victory over the Jamaica Kingsmen in the 2026 final at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. Chasing 171, the Falcons reached 173 for two in 16.4 overs, with 20 balls remaining.
Captain Moeen Ali described the triumph as the culmination of a demanding but rewarding campaign, emphasizing that the achievement belonged to the entire franchise rather than any individual.
> “Yeah, very special. I think more for the franchise, more for the players, coaching staff, and everybody that was involved,” Moeen said. “It’s been a tough journey, but a great journey. Time has gone quickly for us because we’ve enjoyed each other’s company, and you can see on the field the way we played.”
Moeen, who joined the Falcons midway through the season, identified an early match in Saint Lucia as the moment he began to believe the side could challenge for the title. The Falcons were defending just 57 runs from 10 overs and narrowly missed out on victory, but their determination left a lasting impression on the captain.
> “Honestly, in that game I played in Saint Lucia, we were only defending 57 off 10 overs, and we almost won,” he said. “From there, I saw fight and great determination from the guys and I thought, at least there’s something great to work with.”
The final itself was a major test. Jamaica Kingsmen posted 170 for nine after Maaz Sadaqat made a remarkable 114 from 58 balls. Sufyan Moqim led the Falcons’ bowling response with four wickets for 14 runs, ensuring that the target remained within reach.
In reply, wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo guided the Falcons home with an unbeaten 57 from 34 balls. Hasan Nawaz added 47, and the Falcons completed the highest successful chase in a CPL final with an authoritative display.
Moeen credited the team’s ability to overcome injuries and adapt its balance throughout the competition. The captain highlighted the importance of the players who moved in and out of the side during the campaign, including Rahkeem Cornwall and Fabian Allen.
> “I think the biggest difference was the players that came in and out for a couple of injuries in between,” Moeen said. “The quality of players that came in—Cornwall, Fabian Allen—quality players who always give everything.”
Head coach Paul Nixon praised the group’s commitment and clarity, while reserving particular praise for Moeen’s leadership and Jangoo’s contribution in the final.
> “The guys have been immense all year. We’ve been so committed, so clear. Moeen has been an exceptional captain,” Nixon said. “Amir Jangoo had a great competition and saw it through in style.”
The title is a landmark moment for the Falcons, who became CPL champions in only their third season of existence. Their victory over the Kingsmen reflected resilience through injury setbacks, effective squad depth and a decisive performance on the biggest night of the tournament.
