The explosive Chris Gayle marked his 50th CPL match with his 63rd T20 half century as the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots brushed aside defending champions Jamaica Tallawahs by 37 runs last night to clinch a spot in the playoffs for the first time.

Gayle, dropped on 15, led the way smashing an unbeaten 71 off 55 balls as the patriots racked up 208 for 3….the highest total in the CPL this season, and the second-highest overall in the competition’s history.

He also shared in a first wicket stand of 110 with Evin Lewis who made 69.

Kesrick Williams, Odean smith and Krishmar Santokie ended with a wicket each for the Tallawahs

The Tallawahs in reply were held to 171 for 7 off their 20 overs with Trevon Griffith top-scoring with 42 against left-arm-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi who took 3 for 35.

Gayle speaking post match said he was heartbroken to face his former team.

Tallawahs captain Kumar Sangakarra chose to focus on the positives in his team’s performance.

Final scores the patriots 208 for 3, the Tallawahs 171 for 7.

The patriots remained second but are now on 11 points….one behind leader’s Trinbago Knight Riders while the Tallawahs are third on 8points.