Imran Tahir Sets New Record as Oldest Player to Achieve Five-Wicket Haul in T20s
Imran Tahir's Historic Achievement in CPL
In a remarkable feat, South African spin maestro Imran Tahir has set a new record by becoming the oldest player to secure a five-wicket haul in T20 cricket during the current Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season.
While playing for the Guyana Amazon Warriors against the Saint Lucia Kings, Tahir delivered an impressive performance, taking 5 wickets for just 17 runs in four overs. At 47 years and 166 days old, he surpassed his previous record of 46 years and 148 days, which he achieved against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in the 2025 CPL.
Currently, Tahir ranks as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in this year's CPL, having claimed 12 wickets across eight matches with an average of 16.91 and best figures of 5/17. His economy rate stands at 6.76.
With a total of 589 wickets from 461 matches at an average of 19.52, including 13 four-wicket hauls and six five-wicket hauls, Tahir is just 11 wickets shy of reaching the milestone of 600 T20 wickets. He would join the elite company of Rashid Khan (736), Sunil Narine (657), and Dwayne Bravo (631).
In the match, the Saint Lucia Kings fought valiantly but ultimately lost to the Guyana Amazon Warriors by four wickets at Providence Stadium. After winning the toss, the Kings batted first but were bowled out for 119 runs in 18.5 overs, making it a challenging chase for Guyana.
Kamil Pooran was the standout performer for the Kings, scoring 43 runs off 35 balls, supported by Obus Pienaar with 35 runs off 28 balls. John Campbell also contributed with a quick 12 runs off eight balls, but the Kings struggled to set a formidable target due to Guyana's effective spin bowling.
With a target of 120 runs, the bowlers from Saint Lucia maintained pressure on Guyana throughout the middle overs. Roston Chase was particularly effective, taking three wickets for 34 runs in his four overs, while Maheesh Theekshana and Charith Asalanka each took one wicket. Guyana found themselves at 69/4 in the 15th over, keeping the Kings in contention.
Glenn Phillips emerged as the top scorer for Guyana with 37 runs off 40 balls, while Shai Hope added 21 runs. However, it was Quentin Sampson who turned the game around with an explosive unbeaten 37 runs off just 11 balls, including five sixes and a four, leading Guyana to victory at 122/6 in 18.3 overs.
Although this marked the final league match for the Kings, their playoff hopes will hinge on the outcomes of the remaining matches involving other teams.