The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has, since its inception in 2013, become one of the most electrifying T20 cricket tournaments in the world. Bringing together the region’s finest talent and international stars, the CPL combines blazing batting, fiery bowling, and boisterous crowds into a carnival of cricketing delight. From the beaches of Barbados to the stadiums of Trinidad & Tobago, every flick off the pads and every ramp shot elicits roars from fans who live and breathe the Caribbean spirit. As the 2025 season approaches, excitement is building for another chapter of thrilling finishes, dramatic comebacks, and individual brilliance that will be etched into CPL folklore.

CPL 2025 on the horizon

CPL 2025 is set to begin on 14 August 2025, kicking off with a blockbuster clash at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad & Tobago. This season features six franchises—Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, St Lucia Kingsand Trinbago Knight Riders—each playing a double round-robin of ten group matches for a total of 30 league fixtures. The top four teams will advance to the playoffs, which consist of Qualifier 1 (1st vs. 2nd), Eliminator (3rd vs. 4th), Qualifier 2 (loser of Qualifier 1 vs. winner of Eliminator), and the Final. Matches will be hosted across six venues, including Sabina Park, Providence Stadium, and the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

With batting-friendly pitches expected at Providence and Sabina Park and slower tracks at St Lucia, teams will need to balance aggressive scoring with strategic bowling plans. The race for the Orange Cap will ignite fierce competition among the league’s most prolific batters as they vie to etch their names atop the CPL’s run charts.

Top five run-makers in CPL 2025

1. Johnson Charles

Emerging from Grenada with a fearless approach, Johnson Charles has been a mainstay at the top of the order since the league’s inaugural season. Across 118 matches from 2013 to 2024, he scored 3,307 runs at an average of 29.26 and an eye-popping strike rate of 131.23, with a best of 94*. Charles’s quick reflexes against pace and his penchant for launching full-tosses over mid-wicket made him a nightmare for bowlers. His 22 half-centuries highlight remarkable consistency, particularly in power plays where his quick-fire starts often set the tone for his team. In the CPL 2025, Charles’s experience and adaptability on varied surfaces will be crucial as he chases milestones beyond the 3,500-run mark.

2. Andre Fletcher

Andre “Spanners” Fletcherthe dynamic wicketkeeper-batter from Grenada, has electrified crowds with his aggressive strokeplay. Over 118 CPL appearances, Fletcher amassed 3,135 runs at an average of 29.85 and a strike rate of 121.93, including ten fifties and a best of 93*. Renowned for his audacious lofted drives and ability to dismantle spinners, Fletcher thrives under pressure, often turning the tide with blistering cameos. His agility behind the stumps adds further value. Heading into 2025, Fletcher’s knack for blazing quick starts will be pivotal for teams seeking rapid runs in the powerplay, and his hunger to finally don the Orange Cap could spur yet another career-defining season.

3. Kieron Pollard

No conversation about CPL power-hitters is complete without Kieron Pollard. The Trinidadian titan has redefined T20 hitting, dispatching balls into the stands with effortless ease. Across 125 matches, Pollard notched 2,809 runs at 33.04 and a staggering strike rate of 149.01, featuring 29 fifties and a century (104). Beyond batting, his experience as a captain and all-rounder brings leadership and calm under duress. In CPL 2025, Pollard’s ability to accelerate relentlessly in the death overs will remain an essential weapon, and his presence alone can intimidate bowlers on any given night.

4. Evin Lewis

Trinbago Knight Riders’ explosive left-hander, Evin Lewishas dazzled bowling attacks with his inventive shots and audacious reverses. Since debuting in 2014, Lewis has tallied 2,679 runs from 106 matches at an average of 27.33 and a strike rate of 140.85, including five fifties and two centuries (highest 102*). His timing and placement make him a delight to watch, particularly when he pierces gaps with flicks and cut shots. As pitches in venues like Gros Islet favour stroke-makers, Lewis’s flair will be on full display in 2025, and fans will anticipate his signature whirlwind innings to set up or chase down imposing targets.

5. Lendl Simmons

Lendl Simmonsthe versatile Jamaican batter, has built a reputation for providing crucial finishing thrusts. Between 2013 and 2021, he scored 2,629 runs in 93 CPL outings at an average of 31.67 and a strike rate of 119.71, with his highest score of 97. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic shot selection, Simmons excels when tasked with navigating tricky run chases or amplifying scoring in the final overs. Although he last featured in 2021, his legacy remains influential; veterans and emerging finishers alike study his approach to pacing an innings. While Simmons’s active CPL journey may be paused, his contributions continue to inspire finishers in 2025 squads seeking to emulate his tactical mastery.