Daijiworld Media Network- Raipur

Raipur, Mar 12: The West Indies Masters have secured their spot in the semifinals of the International Masters League (IML) 2025, thanks to stellar performances from cricket legends Brian Lara, Lendl Simmons, and Ravi Rampaul.

In their recent match against South Africa Masters at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, the West Indies Masters showcased a dominant display. Electing to bat first, Lendl Simmons delivered a masterclass innings, scoring a rapid 85 runs off 55 balls, including 10 boundaries and 3 sixes. Skipper Brian Lara anchored the innings with a composed 60 off 45 deliveries, guiding the team to a formidable total of 195 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs.

South Africa Masters, in reply, struggled against a disciplined West Indies bowling attack. Pacer Ravi Rampaul was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets for just 22 runs, dismantling the opposition's top order. Despite a valiant 40-run effort from Hashim Amla, South Africa could only muster 150 runs before being bowled out in the 18th over, handing West Indies a comprehensive 45-run victory.

This triumph elevates the West Indies Masters to the third position on the IML 2025 points table, securing their berth in the semifinals. They join India Masters and Sri Lanka Masters, who have also confirmed their spots in the knockout stages.

Looking ahead, the West Indies Masters will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for the semifinals, with hopes of clinching the inaugural IML title.