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[PICTURES/VIDEOS] The ILT20 Season 3 (11 Jan - 09 Feb 2025) - Discussion Thread

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ILT20 season 3 to start from January 11, 2025, set to clash with BBL and SA20

The third season of the ILT20 is set to start from January 11, 2025 and the league is all set to be on a collision course with the Big Bash League and the SA20 in South Africa. The 34-match tournament will be running until February 9 of next year with the final being played on that day. This means that the league is expected to collide with the BBL and SA20.

While the dates for the BBL and SA20 haven't been officially announced yet, the former is expected to run until January 26, according to reports. The SA20 is expected to start after January 7 when the New Year's Test between South Africa and Pakistan will come to an end. The Bangladesh Premier League is also expected to clash with the ILT20 next year.

The BBL last season saw many of the overseas leave the competition before the final series. There were a few of the players that stayed till league stages of BBL came to an end. However, that might not be the case next year.

The ILT20 CEO David White said that the window was confirmed after discussions with the stakeholders.

“We are delighted to confirm the window for DP World International League T20 Season 3. The window has been finalised after discussions with our stakeholders. We have begun our preparations for Season 3 with an aim of making the league even bigger and better."

“Season 2 was a massive success in terms of all relevant metrics’ and helped further strengthen the league’s reputation, making it one of the most sought after T20 leagues for players, fans and broadcasters from around the world. Having considered all aspects, the January-February window for Season 3 has turned out to be the most suitable.

“The DP World ILT20 is also proving to be a successful platform for the development of the UAE players as seen in their recent outstanding performance in the ACC Premier Cup in Oman which helped them qualify for the prestigious Asia Cup (2025, T20 format) for the first time in eight years. Most of the players who excelled in Oman had gained invaluable experience and exposure in Season 2.

“The cricket fans in the UAE and those who travel to our wonderful destinations Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah from across the globe will have a lot to look forward to in Season 3. We have a series of exciting announcements lined-up as our six world-class franchises and their coaching staff put their heads together for retention of players while eyeing new local and international talent for Season 3 signings.”

SOURCE: https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cr...to-clash-with-bbl-and-sa20-2537689-2024-05-10
 
E2liU6q.jpeg
 
Babar and Rizwan will play Bangla Premier League instead of this nonsense

Why waste your time in ILT20 when you can improve your spin game in the BPL?
 
The Desert Vipers are pleased to announce the launch of their new kit for season three of the DP World ILT20.

Members of the squad, including fast bowler Luke Wood and wicket-keeper-batter Azam Khan, will showcase the new kit, which is locally produced using sustainable production techniques.
 
The poison for international cricket, i hope all these league financiers go bankrupt
 
Defending champions MI Emirates to play Dubai Capitals in DP World ILT20 Season 3 opener

The DP World International League T20 Season 3 will begin with a blockbuster clash between the defending champions MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals at the Dubai International Stadium (DIS) in what would be a rematch of Season 2’s final. The first ball will be delivered at 6:00pm local time on Saturday, 11 January 2025.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will launch their Season 3 campaign with a home game against Season 1 finalists’ the Desert Vipers on Sunday, 12 January at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. In the evening game on the same day, Season 1 champions Gulf Giants will face the Sharjah Warriorz in their tournament opener at the DIS. The first of eight matches at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium is set to be an exciting clash between the hosts Sharjah Warriorz and Dubai Capitals on Friday, 17 January – 6:30pm.

Fifteen tournament matches will be played at the Dubai International Stadium. Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium will host 11 while the Sharjah Cricket Stadium will be the centre stage for eight Season 3 matches. The evening games will begin at 6:30 pm on weekdays and at 6:00pm on the weekends. On the double-header weekends, the afternoon games will be played at 2:00pm.

A total of 34 matches will be staged in the month-long tournament which will conclude with the final at the DIS on Sunday, 9 February. The entire Season 3 will be broadcast live on Zee Network in India. The syndicate broadcast partners around the world will be announced in the coming days.

The six DP World ILT20 franchises have retained T20 superstars like Andre Russell (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Sunil Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Alex Hales (Desert Vipers), Sherfane Rutherford (Desert Vipers), David Warner (Dubai Capitals), Rovman Powell (Dubai Capitals), Chris Jordan (Gulf Giants), Shimron Hetmyer (Gulf Giants), Akeal Hossein (MI Emirates), Nicholas Pooran (MI Emirates), Adil Rashid (Sharjah Warriorz Wildcard Pick in Season 2) and Johnson Charles (Sharjah Warriorz).

Additionally, Jason Roy (Sharjah Warriorz), Fakhar Zaman (Desert Vipers), Shai Hope (Dubai Capitals), Lockie Ferguson (Desert Vipers), Roston Chase (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Matthew Wade (Sharjah Warriorz), Ibrahim Zadran (Gulf Giants) and Romario Shepherd (MI Emirates) will make their DP World ILT20 debuts in Season 3 and dazzle the crowds. The latest squad list is available here. Additional UAE players will be selected next week.

DP World ILT20 CEO David White: “We are set for a bigger and better edition of the DP World International League T20 as we unveil the schedule for Season 3 with the first ball to be bowled at our iconic Dubai International Stadium on Saturday, 11 January with the defending champions MI Emirates hosted by the Dubai Capitals in what would be a rematch of Season 2’s grand finale. Our six teams have gathered a line-up of world-class T20 stars besides the best of the UAE talent who will combine to provide rich entertainment to cricket fans during the 34-match tournament.

“The DP World ILT20’s glittering trophy is one of the most sought-after prizes in the cricket calendar and we expect fierce battle between the global superstars who will be giving it their all for their respective franchise.

“The DP World ILT20 provides both spectators at the stadium and fans from around the world via our global broadcast partners Zee Network the opportunity to witness riveting cricketing action. In the coming days we would be launching Season 3 match tickets with special offers for both the diehards and fans while encouraging families to come in numbers especially during the weekends at our fan carnivals at the stadiums in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.

“The weather across UAE will be ideal for cricket for both afternoon and night games, for fans and tourists that are set to visit the country in these months, the DP World ILT20 is surely an experience they cannot afford to miss.”

DP World International League T20 – Season 3 match schedule:

Saturday, 11 January – Dubai Capitals vs MI Emirates, Dubai – 6:00pm

Sunday, 12 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers, Abu Dhabi – 2:00pm

Sunday, 12 January – Gulf Giants vs Sharjah Warriorz, Dubai – 6:00pm

Monday, 13 January – MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Tuesday, 14 January – Gulf Giants vs Desert Vipers, Dubai – 6:30pm

Wednesday, 15 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Sharjah Warriorz, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Thursday, 16 January – Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates, Dubai – 6:30pm

Friday, 17 January – Sharjah Warriorz vs Dubai Capitals, Sharjah – 6:30pm

Saturday, 18 January – Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai – 2:00pm

Saturday, 18 January – Gulf Giants vs Dubai Capitals, Sharjah – 6:00pm

Sunday, 19 January – Sharjah Warriorz vs MI Emirates, Sharjah – 2:00pm

Sunday, 19 January – Gulf Giants vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai – 6:00pm

Monday, 20 January – Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers, Dubai – 6:30pm

Tuesday, 21 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs MI Emirates, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Wednesday, 22 January – Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriorz, Dubai – 6:30pm

Thursday, 23 January – Dubai Capitals vs Gulf Giants, Dubai – 6:30pm

Friday, 24 January – MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Saturday, 25 January – Sharjah Warriorz vs Desert Vipers, Sharjah – 2:00pm

Saturday, 25 January – MI Emirates vs Gulf Giants, Abu Dhabi – 6:00pm

Sunday, 26 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Dubai Capitals, Abu Dhabi – 2:00pm

Sunday, 26 January – Sharjah Warriorz vs Gulf Giants, Sharjah – 6:00pm

Monday, 27 January – MI Emirates vs Desert Vipers, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Tuesday, 28 January – Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriorz, Dubai – 6:30pm

Wednesday, 29 January – Desert Vipers vs Gulf Giants, Dubai – 6:30pm

Thursday, 30 January – Sharjah Warriorz vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Sharjah – 6:30pm

Friday, 31 January – Gulf Giants vs MI Emirates, Dubai – 6:30pm

Saturday, 1 February – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Gulf Giants, Abu Dhabi – 6:00pm

Sunday, 2 February – MI Emirates vs Sharjah Warriorz, Abu Dhabi – 2:00pm

Sunday, 2 February – Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai – 6:00pm

Monday, 3 February – Desert Vipers vs Dubai Capitals, Sharjah – 6:00pm

Wednesday, 5 February – Qualifier 1 – Seed 1 vs Seed 2, Dubai – 6:30pm

Thursday, 6 February – Eliminator – Seed 3 vs Seed 4, Abu Dhabi – 6:30pm

Friday, 7 February – Qualifier 2 – Loser of Q1 vs Winner of Eliminator, Sharjah – 6:30pm

Sunday, 9 February – Final – Winner of Q1 vs Winner of Q2, Dubai – 6:00pm

Venues:

Abu Dhabi – Zayed Cricket Stadium

Dubai – Dubai International Stadium

Sharjah – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

DP World ILT20

www.ilt20.ae www.ilt20.ae
 
ILT 20 Season3, The first ball will be delivered on 11 Jan 2025

Dubai,

The DP World International League T20 Season 3 will begin with a blockbuster clash between the defending champions MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals at the Dubai International Stadium (DIS) in what would be a rematch of Season 2’s final. The first ball will be delivered at 6:00pm local time on Saturday, 11 January 2025.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will launch their Season 3 campaign with a home game against Season 1 finalists’ the Desert Vipers on Sunday, 12 January at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

In the evening game on the same day, Season 1 champions Gulf Giants will face the Sharjah Warriorz in their tournament opener at the DIS. The first of eight matches at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium is set to be an exciting clash between the hosts Sharjah Warriorz and Dubai Capitals on Friday, 17 January – 6:30pm.

Fifteen tournament matches will be played at the Dubai International Stadium. Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium will host 11 while the Sharjah Cricket Stadium will be the centre stage for eight Season 3 matches. The evening games will begin at 6:30 pm on weekdays and at 6:00pm on the weekends. On the double-header weekends, the afternoon games will be played at 2:00pm.

A total of 34 matches will be staged in the month-long tournament which will conclude with the final at the DIS on Sunday, 9 February. The entire Season 3 will be broadcast live on Zee Network in India. The syndicate broadcast partners around the world will be announced in the coming days.
 
ILT20, The quality of the tournament keeps improving, Nicholas Pooran

The third season of the DP World International League T20 is on the horizon with the star West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran among the players preparing to dazzle as the MI Emirates get their title defence underway on Saturday, 11 January in Dubai. The tournament’s growing reputation for competitiveness and its role as a platform for UAE players to develop have captured the attention of cricket fans globally. Pooran, who led MI Emirates to glory in the previous season, is determined to make an impact once again.

Sharing his thoughts on the season ahead, Pooran remarked, “It's nice to be back for the third season of the DP World ILT20. We're really looking forward to this season. We're hoping to do our best again this year and try to retain the title, but there's a lot of hard work ahead for me and the team to make that happen.”

Reflecting on the competition’s intensity, the explosive left-hander added, “Each year, I feel the quality of the tournament keeps improving. The DP World ILT20 is doing a better job every single year. I think competitiveness is important and it feels like international cricket with nine overseas players and two UAE guys.”

Another standout performer from MI Emirates last season was UAE’s Muhammad Waseem, whose aggressive batting saw him finish as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. Waseem tallied 321 runs in 12 innings, showcasing his flair and consistency. Pooran praised the opener, highlighting him as an example of UAE’s cricketing potential.

“There are a lot of talented players in the UAE. I've played with Waseem over the years, and he has been incredible right from when he got his chance. He seized that opportunity, and he's been brilliant for us with MI in both seasons. He's one of my favourites, for sure. I hope he continues to do great things for himself and his family,” Pooran stated.
 
Is this mini IPL or is SAT20 the Jaali IPL. T20 katchra wiping out international calendar for cricket. Alas
 
I'll keep the eye on this league as india is going to play champions trophy at the same Dubai Stadium so you would know how the pitches play this time of the year.

:kp
 
Dazzling DP World ILT20 Season 3 opening ceremony entertains big crowd at Dubai International Stadium

The DP World ILT20 launched in spectacular fashion at the Dubai International Stadium today. The star-studded trio of Bollywood superstars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa headlined a blockbuster opening ceremony as fans packed the iconic ‘Ring of Fire’ for the double-entertainment offer – opening ceremony and the tournament opener – for the region’s premier T20 tournament.

The festivities culminated in a stunning fireworks display signaling the start of the season. Bollywood actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani and popular host Ridhima Pathak kept the crowd engaged as emcees for the evening.

Following the opening ceremony, anticipation soared for the season opener that will see Dubai Capitals host defending champions, MI Emirates in a thrilling rematch of last year’s final. The opening ball of the season was bowled at 7:30pm local time with MI Emirates winning the toss and choosing to bowl first.

Audiences from around the world can catch the action live on the Zee Network and its syndication partners through both linear and digital platforms.

Zee Network’s most widely distributed and viewed 15 linear TV channels include: &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD and &Flix HD. The DP World ILT20 is also free to view on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – ZEE5.

Furthermore, fans can take advantage of an incredible offer for matchdays from Sunday, 12 January onwards—four tickets for just AED 40, available exclusively in the general category, and a final and limited release of tickets for fans, with 25% off on all Pavilion and Platinum tickets.

The month-long cricket fest will see some of the world’s finest cricketers in action, including Nicholas Pooran (MI Emirates), Sikandar Raza (Dubai Capitals), Sunil Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Lockie Ferguson (Desert Vipers), James Vince (Gulf Giants), Tim Southee (Sharjah Warriorz), David Warner (Dubai Capitals), Jason Holder (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Shimron Hetmyer (Gulf Giants), Phil Salt (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Bhanuka Rajapaksa (Sharjah Warriorz), Sam Curran (Desert Vipers), Jake Fraser-McGurk (Dubai Capitals), Tim David (Gulf Giants), Fazalhaq Farooqi (MI Emirates), Adil Rashid (Sharjah Warriorz), Fakhar Zaman (Desert Vipers), Roston Chase (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Matthew Wade (Sharjah Warriorz), Ibrahim Zadran (Gulf Giants), Alex Hales (Desert Vipers), Sherfane Rutherford (Desert Vipers), Rovman Powell (Dubai Capitals), and Chris Jordan (Gulf Giants).
 
Electrician who turned into cricketer, now chasing Shoaib Akhtar pace, leaves Pakistan to play ILT20 in THIS country

Only 8 runs were needed in the last over. It was very tense because defending just 8 runs in the final over is tough, especially with 2 wickets remaining,” recalled UAE left-arm fast bowler Muhammad Jawad Ullah. Just two weeks ago, he was given what many thought was an almost impossible task. In the final over of the ILT20 Gulf Cricket Championship (GCC), Kuwait required just a few runs to prevent UAE from securing their maiden title.

Kuwait batter Meet Bhavsar, who was looking strong at 68 off 52, was the player many would have backed to finish the game. The start of the over didn’t hint at any late drama either.

“The first ball was a wide, and the second delivery went for a four. At that point, I approached the captain, and he gave me a plan,” Jawad Ullah shared in an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com.

There were nerves, of course. Jawadullah admitted that before the tournament, he “feared” the format itself. “I feared being hit for fours and sixes off every delivery. But I trusted my process and have performed well,” he said. By the time the final arrived, Jawadullah was no longer the hesitant newcomer but a seasoned professional, equipped with skills and confidence. With figures of 1/16 in two overs, he helped his team, the Strikers, restrict the Gladiators to 91/5 before chasing down the target with four balls remaining.

Jawadullah lifted the trophy, marking the first of his playing career. Hard as it may be to believe, he had yet to make his professional debut at this time last year.

About 170 km east of Abu Dhabi lies Al-Ain, the Emirates’ largest inland city, known as the ‘Garden City’ for its greenery, Camel Souks, oases, and wildlife. It was here that Muhammad Jawadullah’s cricketing ambitions took root upon his arrival in the Emirates in January 2020. Hailing from a modest family near Mardan in the mountainous region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Jawadullah’s early life lacked opportunities in both cricket and stable employment. Remarkably, he had never even held a professional cricket ball before stepping foot in the UAE.

“I only used to play with a tennis ball earlier. But here in the UAE, I got an opportunity to start playing with the hard ball,” Jawadullah tells Hindustan Times in an exclusive interview.

Jawadullah secured a job as an electric contractor at Al Ain’s renowned shooting club, but his passion for cricket remained unwavering, even amidst hardships. “Those were challenging days. Balancing a nine-hour shift as an electrician with regular cricket matches was incredibly tough. I worked during the day and played cricket in the evenings, making it my daily routine,” he recalls, his voice reflecting the weight of those difficult times.

On some days, Jawadullah played two to three consecutive club matches, earning around 100 Dirhams per game—enough to make ends meet, but it took a physical toll. Cricket, however, became his escape, a way to cope with life’s challenges. Despite this, his journey as a cricketer remained somewhat disconnected from formal training, as most matches in Al Ain’s club cricket were played on hard cement surfaces, limiting his development as a fast bowler in his early years.

Adding to these challenges was a lack of awareness regarding fitness and nutrition. While players his age in other countries received structured fitness regimes from physios, Jawadullah played for over two years without a focused approach to fitness or skills development. Without proper guidance, he was on the verge of injuries, which could have jeopardized his future in the game even before he formally began his professional cricket career.

The turning point came in April 2022 when UAE’s national cricket team, under former India batter Robin Singh’s coaching, held nationwide bowling trials. Nearly 600 players attended, including Jawadullah, the left-arm bowler from Pakistan. In just two deliveries, Jawadullah left such a lasting impression on the UAE support staff that they invited him to join their camp, despite the fact that ICC regulations required him to have lived in the country for at least three years before representing it.

Asked to bowl an in-swinging delivery on his first ball, Jawadullah executed it perfectly, immediately catching the attention of the scouting team. His next challenge was delivering a well-timed bumper, which he also nailed flawlessly.

His raw talent was undeniable. Recognizing his potential, the support staff decided to keep Jawadullah in the camp as a net bowler, awaiting the completion of his three-year residency in the UAE before formally incorporating him into the squad.


www.india.com

Electrician who turned into cricketer, now chasing Shoaib Akhtar pace, leaves Pakistan to play ILT20 in THIS country

An electrician-turned-cricketer, now chasing Shoaib Akhtar's pace, Muhammad Jawadullah leaves Pakistan to play for the UAE national team.
www.india.com www.india.com
 
Gus Atkinson, JFM & Motie apart from them all pensioners looking for some ransom
 
Dan Lawrence, Sam Curran lead Desert Vipers to seven-wicket victory against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Abu Dhabi, January 12 2025: The Desert Vipers began their campaign with a seven-wicket victory against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Half centuries from Dan Lawrence and Sam Curran ensured the Vipers would comfortably surmount their target of 167. Dan Lawrence powered his way to 70 runs in 39 balls, while Sam Curran remained unbeaten on 50 from 37 deliveries.

Earlier in the day, the Vipers won the toss and elected to field first. Phil Salt anchored the innings with an unbeaten half century of 71 runs that came in 49 balls. Alishan Sharafu contributed with a vital knock of 46 runs while Andre Russell provided the finishing flourish with a quick-fire innings of 30 runs.

The Desert Vipers’ run chase started well as they put on 46 runs in the powerplay. Fakhar Zaman looked to be in good form, cracking three boundaries and a six in his innings of 23 runs before he was scalped by Andre Russell in the 5th over. Soon after, Alex Hales’ cautious knock of 10 runs came to an end at the hands of Sunil Narine in the 8th over to leave the Vipers at 56/2.

Dan Lawrence and Sam Curran then combined to script a match winning partnership of 95 runs in 59 balls. Lawrence led the way with 71 runs along with four sixes and five boundaries. Meanwhile Sam Curran notched up a half century in 37 deliveries, but his innings comprised very few risks with only two fours and a six.

Shahid Bhutta ended the massive partnership with the wicket of Dan Lawrence in the 18th over. With 16 runs needed, Sherfane Rutherford joined Sam Curran at the crease as the Vipers comfortably reached their target in 18.4 overs, finishing at 168/3.

In the first innings, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders had a contrasting powerplay. Kyle Mayers was scalped by Mohammad Amir, while Joe Clarke was cleaned up by Lockie Ferguson to leave the Knight Riders in trouble at 19/2 in 4.1 overs.

Opener Phil Salt took the onus of carrying the Knight Riders forward as he remained unbeaten with 71 runs. Salt carved four sixes and five fours in his 49-ball innings.

Michael Pepper was run out after a brief contribution of 11 runs to make way for Alishan Sharafu. Sharafu buttressed Salt with a crucial knock of 46 runs in 34 balls. Following Sharafu’s departure, it was Andre Russell who provided the innings with a much-needed surge, smashing 30 runs in just 14 deliveries. Russell hammered two fours and three sixes before he was run out to help the Knight Riders post 166/5 in 20 overs.

Speaking on his innings and his broader experience at the DP World ILT20, Player of the match, Dan Lawrence said, "The situation was quite nice to come into, knowing I had to give myself time. From the hotel to how the coaches treat you, this is probably the most professional set-up."

Reflecting on the loss, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ skipper Sunil Narine said, “We did well to get back in the game. We had a tough powerplay and we obviously wanted more runs. The key was the difference in the first six overs.”

Brief Scores

Desert Vipers bt Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by seven wickets
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 166/5 in 20 overs (Phil Salt 71 not out, Alishan Sharafu 46, Andre Russell 30, Lockie Ferguson 1 for 26, Mohammad Amir 1 for 29)

Desert Vipers 168/3 in 18.4 overs (Dan Lawrence 70, Sam Curran 50 not out, Fakhar Zaman 23, Andre Russell 1 for 15, Shahid Bhutta 1 for 27, Sunil Narine 1 for 29)

Player of the Match: Dan Lawrence
 
Tom Kohler-Cadmore's heroic knock seals last-ball victory for Sharjah Warriorz

Dubai, January 12 2025: Fans at the Dubai International Stadium were treated to yet another dramatic finish on Sunday evening as Sharjah Warriorz registered a three-wicket victory against the Gulf Giants. Tom Kohler-Cadmore was the standout performer in a match that went down to the last ball. He finished unbeaten on 83 runs from 56 balls with six fours and four sixes to steer the Warriorz to their target of 175.

Kohler-Cadmore's exploits were complemented by a breezy knock of 45 runs from UAE’s Rohan Mustafa as the pair put on a 105-run partnership. The Warriorz endured a few anxious moments in the final over, but a composed Kohler-Cadmore helped them sail through and secure the two points.

Earlier in the evening, the Giants did well to recover from a tepid start. Rehan Ahmed, Jordan Cox and Shimron Hetmyer put up scores of 46, 38 and 36 runs respectively to place the Giants at 174/7. Meanwhile, Tim Southee led the Sharjah Warriorz bowling attack with enviable figures of 3 for 30.

Chasing 175, the Warriorz lost Johnson Charles to Daniel Worall as early as the first over, while Mark Adair scalped Jason Roy in the second over. The Warriorz still had a lucrative powerplay courtesy of Tom Kohler-Cadmore and UAE’s Rohan Mustafa as they finished the phase at 55/2.

Kohler-Cadmore was in scintillating form, smashing three fours and three sixes on his way to a 32-ball half-century. Together with Mustafa, he forged a commanding partnership, with Mustafa contributing a well-paced 45 runs off 33 balls.

The stand was broken in the 13th over when Blessing Muzarabani dismissed Mustafa, leaving the Warriorz at 119/3. While Kohler-Cadmore cruised ahead on one end, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Karim Janat perished quickly, only managing two and five runs respectively.

Keemo Paul arrived at the crease with the Warriorz needing 48 runs off 33 balls. He made a quick 11 off five deliveries before Blessing Muzarabani claimed his second wicket of the night. Harmeet Singh followed soon after, dismissed for just two runs with a sharp caught-and-bowled effort from Mark Adair.

With 24 runs required from the final two overs, Adil Rashid struck a crucial six in the 19th over, which yielded 14 runs and brought the target within reach. In a tense final over, Tom Kohler-Cadmore held his nerve to secure the 10 runs needed, guiding the Warriorz to victory off the last ball in a thrilling finish.

Sharjah Warriorz Captain Tim Southee’s decision to bowl first was quickly validated as the pacer picked up the wickets of Adam Lyth and James Vince in the powerplay. Rehan Ahmed and Jordan Cox saw the Gulf Giants through the remainder of the fielding restrictions, finishing the first six overs at 41/2.

The duo’s partnership played a key role in helping the Giants recover from the loss of early wickets with a 57-run stand. Rehan Ahmed was particularly impressive, scoring a brisk 46 runs off 27 balls, laced with four boundaries and two sixes, before being dismissed by Harmeet Singh in the 11th over.

Meanwhile Jordan Cox played the supporting role with 36 runs in 23 balls but fell to Adam Milne in the 14th over to leave the Giants at 102/4.

Shimron Hetmyer and Mark Adair produced much needed contributions to power the Giants through the death overs. Hetmyer struck five fours and a six in his 23-ball knock of 36 runs until he was caught off Tim Southee in the penultimate over.

Mark Adair posted 20 runs at a strike-rate of 200 while Saghir Khan squeezed 11 runs in just four balls to conjure a strong finish at 174/7 in 20 overs.

Following his innings, Player of the Match Tom Kohler-Cadmore said, “It is great to get off with a win. I would have been devastated had we not got over the line. The pitch played well once you got your eye in, it was easier to hit.”

Praising Kohler-Cadmore's knock, Gulf Giants skipper James Vince said, "I'm pretty happy with that score. There was some quality bowling from them upfront. Rehan and Cox built a good partnership, and Hettie did what he does. We thought they would come out strong, and the half chance of Cadmore proved costly. Having someone staying till the end was crucial. He is a quality player, a clean striker of the ball. It was a quality knock.”

Brief Scores

Sharjah Warriorz bt Gulf Giants by three wickets

Gulf Giants 174/7 in 20 overs (Rehan Ahmed 46, Jordan Cox 38, Shimron Hetmyer 36, Tim Southee 3 for 30)

Sharjah Warriorz 175/7 in 20 overs (Tom Kohler-Cadmore 83 not out, Rohan Mustafa 45, Mark Adair 2 for 22, Blessing Muzarabani 2 for 27)
 
Curran, Rutherford star as Desert Vipers cruise to six-wicket victory Over Gulf Giants

Dubai January 14, 2025: The Desert Vipers defeated the Gulf Giants by six wickets in a low scoring affair to complete their second consecutive victory, at the Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday evening. An unbeaten knock of 42 runs from all-rounder Sam Curran orchestrated a comfortable run chase for the Desert Vipers. He was assisted by Sherfane Rutherford who finished with 40 runs in 18 balls to bring the Vipers home in 17.4 overs.

The Vipers’ pacers ruled the first innings as skipper Lockie Ferguson and Mohammad Amir ran through the Giants top and middle order with three and two wickets respectively. Leading from the front, James Vince waged a lone battle, putting on an unbeaten 76 runs in 62 balls to steer the Giants to 119/9 in 20 overs.

The Desert Vipers’ were rattled in the second over of their run chase as Mark Adair accounted for Fakhar Zaman and the in-form Dan Lawrence. The English duo of Alex Hales and Sam Curran saw the Vipers through the powerplay, delicately placed at 22/2.
While Hales was the more reserved of the two, Curran broke the shackles in the seventh over with a six over extra cover and a four off Daniel Worall. Curran and Hales steadied the ship, combining for 49 runs before Blessing Muzarabani got the all-important breakthrough of Alex Hales. Hales scored 20 runs in 30 balls.

Azam Khan miscued Tymal Mills’ shorter one to depart for seven runs and leave the score at 66/4 in 12.2 overs. Every time the pressure built; Curran found a boundary to keep the scoreboard ticking.

Sherfane Rutherford joined the run chase as the Vipers cruised towards the target. The pair put on 55 runs in 32 balls as Rutherford struck two sixes and a four in the 18th over to chase down the target of 120 in 17.4 overs. Sam Curran remained unbeaten on 42 runs in 43 balls including four fours and a six.

Earlier in the evening, the Gulf Giants lost early wickets with Mohammad Amir tapping Adam Lyth, LBW, as early as the first over. Soon after, Lockie Ferguson scalped Rehan Khan, while Jordan Cox was dismissed by Sam Curran to leave the Giants in hot water at 32/3 in six overs.

Opener James Vince played a measured innings, taking few chances and frequently rotating the strike. However, he struggled to find support with wickets tumbling around him.

Wanindu Hasaranga cleaned up Ollie Robinson for a duck in the sixth over while Lockie Ferguson returned to the attack to pick up the dangerous Shimron Hetmyer and Mark Adair for single figures.

At 50/6, Vince found brief support in UAE’s Aayan Afzal Khan, who scored 15 off 18 and launched Hasaranga for the first six of the game during a 36-run stand. However, Khan’s dismissal in the 15th over by Luke Wood further dented the Giants’ efforts. Amir then picked off Saghir Khan with a clever slower delivery, leaving Vince to fight a lone battle.

In the 18th over, James Vince took down Luke Wood for 15 runs, bringing up a 47-ball half century in the process. Vince retained strike for the final two overs squeezing a couple more boundaries to place the Giants at 119/9 in 20 overs.

Player of the Match, Sam Curran said, “It is nice to be here for the start of the tournament and it is nice to win on a tricky pitch. It was almost a bit of a Test match out there, trying to trust your defence. I knew they are going go for their best seam bowlers at the top, so had to adjust accordingly.”

Looking back at the defeat, Gulf Giant skipper James Vince said, “It was a tough gig batting first, there seemed to be a bit more moisture in the wicket than the last game. 120 is always going to be tough to defend. We needed a bit of luck going our way on a wicket like that, if we had held onto our chances, it could have been a bit tricky for them.”

Brief Scores

Desert Vipers bt Gulf Giants by six wickets
Gulf Giants 119/9 in 20 overs (James Vince 76, Aayan Afzal Khan 15, Lockie Ferguson 3 for 22, Mohammad Amir 2 for 23)
Desert Vipers 121/4 in 20 overs (Sam Curran 42 not out, Sherfane Rutherford 40 not out, Mark Adair 2 for 12, Tymal Mills 1 for 23
Player of the Match: Sam Curran
 
David Willey and Jason Holder lead Abu Dhabi Knight Riders to 30-run victory against Sharjah Warriorz

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders secured their first victory at the DP World ILT20 Season 3, defeating Sharjah Warriorz by 30 runs at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Jason Holder picked up four wickets for just 23 runs and David Willey returned figures of three wickets for 19 runs to defend their total of 159/5 with ease.

Batting first, an unbroken partnership of 50 runs in the death overs between Andre Russell and Laurie Evans enabled the Knight Riders to post 159/5 after Kyle Mayers set the tone early with a rapid 21 runs. Evans remained unbeaten on 39 runs while Russell’s 12-ball knock of 24 provided the late innings fireworks. In response, the Sharjah Warriorz innings was plagued by the lack of partnerships and an abundance of dot balls.

Mirroring the first innings, Sharjah Warriorz lost Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Jason Roy to David Willey in the first three overs. Johnston Charles looked to counterattack but was caught at deep backward square leg, off Jason Holder. The Warriorz were falling behind the equation at 29/3 in six overs. UAE’s Rohan Mustafa struck four boundaries in his innings of 21 runs before he was claimed by Jason Holder in the eighth over.

Willey returned to the fray to pick up his third wicket, removing Karim Janat for nine runs. Bhanuka Rajapaksa’s laboured innings of seven runs in 19 balls also came to an end when he fell to Shahid Bhutta in the 13th over leaving the Warriorz at 70/6 in 12.2 overs.Harmeet Singh managed eight runs and Keemo Paul tried to fight back with a couple of boundaries until Jason Holder scalped both batters in the death overs.

With 54 runs required in the last two overs, skipper Tim Southee smashed two four and two sixes in the 19th over. The effort was purely consolatory as Mayers dismissed Southee in the final over and the Warriorz bundled up for 129 runs in 19.3 overs

Earlier in the evening, Adam Milne breathed fire in his opening spell rattling the stumps of Phil Salt and Kyle Mayers to bring the Knight Riders to 26/2 within three overs. Prior to his dismissal Mayers was on a rampage, smashing two fours and two sixes to score 21 runs in nine balls. At the end of the fielding restrictions the scoreline read 49/2.

Coming in at number three, Joe Clarke did well to negotiate the challenging early overs, putting on 32 runs in 27 balls. Meanwhile, Michael Pepper was undone by Adil Rashid for seven runs, holing out to UAE’s Rohan Mustafa at deep backward square leg.

Harmeet Singh found a key breakthrough, pinging Joe Clarke on the pads in the 12th over. Alishan Sharafu made a vital contribution partnering with Clarke and Laurie Evans for 24 and 23 runs respectively before he was sent back by Adil Rashid with the score at 109/5 in 15.3 overs.

While Laurie Evans dug deep to finish with 39 runs in 31 balls on a night where he could not consistently find the middle of the bat, Andre Russell did the damage in the death overs, dispatching three sixes for an innings of 24 runs in 12 balls. The partnership was worth 50 runs in 27 balls as the innings closed at 159/5 in 20 overs.

Following the defeat, Sharjah Warriorz skipper, Tim Southee said, “The pitch was a tricky one. It is still early stages of the tournament; we will dust ourselves off and look forward to the next ones. We would like our dot balls to be a lot lower than 70 balls so we will try to minimise that. We know this game can change quickly, so we get a day off tomorrow and we go again.”

Providing insight on his approach to bowling, Player of the Match, David Willey said, “I always aim to take wickets and try to swing the new ball to achieve that. The scoreboard generally dictates what we need, and I focus on reading the game well to deliver accordingly. I've built my career around swinging the ball and always strive to stay one step ahead of the batter.”
 
Desert Vipers seal five wicket victory against the MI Emirates as Fakhar Zaman dazzles in Dubai

Fakhar Zaman lit up the Dubai International Stadium with a stellar knock of 67 runs in 52 deliveries to secure a five-wicket victory for the Desert Vipers against the MI Emirates.

Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales’ knock of 34 runs gave the Vipers a strong start in the run chase. Zaman and Sam Curran then erected a 65-run stand through the middle overs while Sherfane Rutherford powered his way to 21 runs in eight balls to chase the target of 160 in 19.1 overs.

Electing to bat first, the MI Emirates had a promising start but could not extend it into the middle overs. However, the MI Emirates scored 34 runs in the last two overs, with Kieron Pollard and Romario Shepherd hitting two sixes apiece to finish at 159/6.

In response, the Desert Vipers’ opening combination of Alex Hales and Fakhar Zaman coasted through the powerplay to post 51 runs.

Alex Hales had made his way to 34 runs in 22 balls when he was cleaned up by a ripper from Waqar Salamkheil in the eighth over. Dan Lawrence was dismissed soon after, caught and bowled by Dan Mousley in the ninth over. Mousley scalped Azam Khan in the same manner in his next over to bring the score to 71/3 in 10.1 overs.

With wickets falling on one end, Fakhar Zaman limited his risks until he unleashed two sixes off Salamkheil in the 14th over. Zaman brought up a 44-ball half century studded with four sixes and three fours.

Zaman creamed two more boundaries in the next over, while Sam Curran joined in with a huge six to complete a second consecutive 16-run over. The pair’s 50-run stand in 31 balls shifted the momentum toward the Desert Vipers.

Zaman was finally dismissed by Zahoor Khan in the 17th over, with the Vipers chasing 24 runs in 18 balls.

The next batter, Sherfane Rutherford hit two boundaries while Zahoor Khan picked up his second wicket through Sam Curran (28 runs) in the penultimate over. The Vipers needed six runs in six balls and Rutherford smoked AM Ghazanfar over deep square leg to seal the win in 19.1 overs.

In the first innings, the MI Emirates started well with Muhammad Waseem and Kusal Perera striking seven fours and a six to finish the powerplay at 48/0.

The runs dried up in the next phase of the innings as Wanindu Hasaranga picked up the first wicket of the night, trapping Waseem LBW for 18 runs. Kusal Perera also failed to convert a good start of 33 runs in 29 balls, falling to Dan Lawrence in the 10th over.

Nicholas Pooran and Tom Banton combined for a brief 22-run partnership but both batters fell in the 13th over. Skipper Lockie Ferguson dismissed Nicholas Pooran while Tom Banton was run out, leaving the MI Emirates at 86/4.

Kieron Pollard and Dan Mousley took the innings further with a 37-run stand. Mousley was dismissed by David Payne after a near run-a-ball knock of 15 runs.

Pollard gave the run-rate an injection with two fours and three sixes including two maximums of Lockie Ferguson in the 19th over. Ferguson had the final say though, dismissing Pollard in the same over after the West Indian had put on 36 runs in 23 balls.

The final over saw Romario Shepherd come out with all guns blazing, he scored an unbeaten 16 runs, smashing two sixes off David Payne as the MI Emirates finished at 159/6 in 20 overs.

On the thought process behind his innings, Player of the Match Fakhar Zaman said: “I think the fast bowlers were easy, but we were struggling against spinners. We just planned to play out their overs and take the game deep. It was because of the way the bowlers were bowling and the leg-side boundary was big, so I was looking for runs on the shorter boundary.”

MI Emirates skipper, Nicholas Pooran added: “I felt we were in the game; we were happy with 160, the way the pitch was playing, it seemed to be very tricky. It's still young in the tournament, Mousley got us two wickets, we went searching for another, but we didn't get it. Credit to Fakhar Zaman and Sam Curran, they played really well,”

Brief Scores

MI Emirates 159/6 in 20 overs (Kieron Pollard 36, Kusal Perera 33, Muhammad Waseem 18, Lockie Ferguson 2 for 23, Wanindu Hasaranga 1 for 21, Dan Lawrence 1 for 21)

Desert Vipers 161/5 in 20 overs (Fakhar Zaman 67, Alex Hales 34, Sam Curran 28, Sherfane Rutherford 21 not out, Zahoor Khan 2 for 24, Dan Mousley 2 for 27, Waqar Salamkheil 1 for 29)

Player of the Match: Fakhar Zaman
 
Avishka Fernando’s record-breaking fifty powers Sharjah Warriorz to victory over Dubai Capitals

Avishka Fernando electrified the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with a blistering innings, leading the Warriorz to a record-breaking chase in DP World ILT20 history. Chasing 202 against the Dubai Capitals, Fernando smashed an extraordinary 81 runs off just 27 balls, reaching his half-century in a record-breaking 16 balls—the fastest in the tournament's history.

Fernando’s innings, featuring eight massive sixes and six fours, ensured the Warriorz scaled the target in 18.1 overs with five wickets in hand. Earlier in the evening, Shai Hope played a pivotal role for the Capitals, compiling 83 runs to help his team post a challenging 201/5.

Facing a steep target, Johnson Charles ensured the Sharjah Warriorz stayed on track in the first few overs. Supported by Jason Roy on one end, Charles took on the Capitals’ attack, carving three fours and three sixes on the way to 37 runs in 19 balls. His onslaught was halted in the final over of the powerplay, dismissed by Olly Stone to leave the Warriorz at 56/1.

Dushmantha Chameera then broke through with the wicket of Jason Roy in the seventh over for 26 runs. Coming in at number three, Avishka Fernando came to life in the ninth over tearing into Gulbadin Naib for a six and two fours in consecutive deliveries.

UAE’s Rohan Mustafa also chipped in with 17 runs and vital boundaries until he was Chameera’s second wicket of the night bringing the score to 132/3 in 12.1 overs.

Avishka Fernando showcased sheer dominance as he shattered the DP World ILT20 record for the fastest half-century, racing to the milestone in just 16 balls. (The previous record, set by Desert Vipers’ Azam Khan, stood at 18 balls.)

Fernando then struck three consecutive sixes against Gulbadin Naib in a 27-run over, also marking the most runs conceded in an over in DP World ILT20 history. Fernando’s assault finally subsided when Obed McCoy scalped him, caught behind in the 16th over.

Luke Wells remained composed to put up 31 runs in 17 balls to help the Warriorz sail home comfortably.

In the first innings, the Dubai Capitals made the most of the fielding restrictions. Ben Dunk showcased his intent early, smashing two fours and a six, while Hope complemented him with three crisp boundaries. However, Dunk’s promising innings came to an end when an acrobatic effort from Kemo Paul off Adam Milne’s bowling saw him depart. The Capitals reached a solid 50/1 at the end of the powerplay.

Brandon McMullen continued the momentum before he was picked up by Adil Rashid on 22 runs in 14 balls. Captain Sikandar Raza joined Hope, and the pair ensured the run rate didn’t drop with a 67-run stand in 37 balls. Shai Hope brought up a 36-ball half century that saw three fours and two sixes, in the 14th over. Raza departed for 27 runs in 20 balls, when he holed out to a sharp catch from Adam Milne, off Karim Janat.

Rovman Powell unleashed a barrage of sixes against the Warriorz, racing to 28 runs in 15 balls, including an 18-run over against Karim Janat. Meanwhile, Hope continued his sensational form smashing two consecutive sixes in of Adam Milne in the 19th over as well.

Tim Southee brought some control to the final over, dismissing Powell and Dasun Shanaka in quick succession. Despite his efforts, the Capitals crossed the 200-run mark, finishing at 201/5.

Player of the Match, Avishka Fernando said: "I wanted to play my natural game, and I thank God for how things turned out. The wicket was great to bat on, and when they scored 200, I knew I had to play positively. It came naturally, and I'm grateful for that. I didn’t realize I had broken the record for the fastest fifty, but I’m happy with the performance."

Dubai Capitals captain, Sikandar Raza said: “I thought it was a very good total. You don’t usually see 202 in Sharjah, so I was pretty confident it was a strong score, and we should have been able to win the game. Shai has been a fantastic addition to the team, and hopefully, the other players around him step up as well. The wicket got better later, and the dew made it tougher. The cutters weren’t holding in the wicket either. Our fielding could have been better, and Avishka played brilliantly”

Brief scores

Dubai Capitals 201/5 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 83 not out, Rovman Powell 28, Sikandar Raza 27, Tim Southee 2 for 35, Karim Janat 1 for 24, Adil Rashid 1 for 36)

Sharjah Warriorz 202/5 in 18.1 overs (Avishka Fernando 81, Johnson Charles 37, Luke Wells 31 not out, Dushmantha Chameera 3 for 30, Obed McCoy 1 for 30)

Player of the Match: Avishka Fernando
 
There’s Never Going to be a Lack of Intent in Sharjah Warriorz’s Line-Up, Says Coach JP Duminy

Sharjah, 18 January, 2025: A brilliant counter-attacking innings by the Sri Lankan Avishka Fernando helped propel the Sharjah Warriorz to second spot on the points table, as they defeated the Dubai Capitals in Sharjah. The Sharjah Warriorz, who were playing their first home game this season, won by 5 wickets and 11 deliveries to spare.

Speaking after the match, captain Tim Southee said, “To chase down a score like that and that innings from Fernando was incredible. To get off the plane in the morning and do that is special. Fernando was outstanding for us.”

The captain further added, “There’s plenty of things to improve, the fielding and with the ball, which is always easy to do after a win. It was a good wicket, if you executed with the ball it was good but if you missed it made it slightly, then it is a different story. Couple of guys were sick and it shows the depth of the team when others come and perform.”

Coach JP Duminy also stated, “Fielding is an area of our game that we can work on. We try to collectively put in a big effort in the field. So, that’s something we want to work on and fielding is something we want to be better at for sure.”

“Focussing on my natural game and thank the lord for today's knock. The wicket was nice to bat today, the thoughts when chasing 200 was to be positive, it came naturally and thankful for that. I did not realise that I have broken the record for the fastest-ever 50,” said Avishka Fernando, who scored 81 from 27 deliveries, with 8 maximums and 6 boundaries.

Avishka, who scored the fastest-ever 50 in the history of the ILT20, earned high praise from his coach. JP Duminy said, “Just the mindset that he came in with, he got off the plane last night and got introduced to the team after that. And to have the confidence to arrive and play the way he did, shows, not only his character but also his ability. And just for him to feel at ease in our environment is something we (Sharjah Warriorz) strive for, but that was certainly one of the most special knocks we have seen.”

At the half-way stage, the Sharjah Warriorz had their task cut out with a chase in excess of 200. But the coach explained the team talk was more along the lines of keeping things simple. “The conversation with the team was quite light-hearted. We knew it was a good pitch, and we just had to play to our ability, and I think we did that. There’s never going to be a lack of intent in this line up, and now we just need to find consistency.”

Sharjah Warriorz next take on the MI Emirates at Sharjah on Sunday.
 

ILT20: UAE's Aayan stars for Gulf Giants; Desert Vipers beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders​


The Gulf Giants notched their first victory of their campaign at the ILT20 Season 3, with a six-wicket triumph against the Dubai Capitals on Saturday evening.

Chasing 166, Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer put on a match winning partnership of 80 runs in only 44 deliveries. Erasmus finished with an unbeaten 34-ball fifty, while Hetmyer also remained not out with 41 runs in just 20 balls, comprising four sixes.

Batting first, the Dubai Capitals lost wickets at regular intervals, restricting them to 165/7 in 20 overs. UAE's young spinner Aayan Afzal Khan and Mark Adair led the Giants bowling attack with two-wicket hauls each.

Adam Lyth wasted no time setting the tone for the Giants’ run chase, striking four boundaries and a six during an aggressive 32-run innings off just 17 deliveries. His knock ended in the eighth over, with Farhan Khan claiming his wicket.

Meanwhile, Desert Vipers put up a stunning all-round display as they banked on Alex Hales’ half-century, three wickets from Nathan Sowter and three incredible catches from Luke Wood to hand the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders a 53-run defeat at the Dubai International Stadium in the ongoing DP World ILT20.

With four victories in their first four matches, the Vipers lead the points table with eight points.

Chasing 194, the Knight Riders got off to a solid start courtesy of Joe Clarke, but a middle-innings collapse saw them slip to a massive defeat at the Dubai International Stadium.

The Vipers took to the field in their green kit, celebrating their second annual Sustainability Match, as the Dubai International Stadium marked the occasion by trialing new initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of cricket matches.

Source: Khaleej Times
 

UAE spinner Aayan's record spell goes in vain as ADKR beat Giants​


The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders clinched their second victory of the ILT20 Season 3, defeating the Gulf Giants by 37 runs at a packed Dubai International Stadium on Sunday evening.

Despite Aayan Afzal Khan’s shrewd four-wicket haul for just 16 runs, which set a new record for the best figures by a UAE player in ILT20 history, the Knight Riders posted 176/9, buoyed by Michael Pepper’s half-century.

Ibrar Ahmad, Jason Holder and Ali Khan each bagged two wickets to keep the Giants at bay.

It was a tough outing for the Giants batters as they lost both openers in the powerplay. Adam Lyth was scalped by David Willey in the first over, while skipper James Vince who looked in good form, miscued off Ibrar Ahmad for 14 runs in the fourth over.

At 40/2 by the end of the powerplay, the Giants were falling well behind the equation. The innings unraveled further as Jordan Cox departed for 10 runs and Ibrahim Zadran was bowled by Sunil Narine after he had worked hard for 24 runs in 22 balls.

At the ten-over mark, the Giants were wobbling at 62/4. The onus was on Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer to steer another run chase, but it was not to be. Hetmyer had made 20 runs in 15 balls before he holed out to Sunil Narine off Super Sub Ali Khan. Jason Holder then removed Gerhard Erasmus after the Namibian had accumulated 24 runs in 23 balls to leave the score at 96/6 in 14.1 overs

The target proved too steep as Holder claimed his second wicket through Mark Adair for 19 runs as the Giants finished proceedings at 139/8.

In the first innings, an exciting powerplay for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders treated the fans to runs and wickets, finishing the phase at 60/2.

Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous took the initiative racing to 19 and 17 runs respectively, in 12 balls each. The assault was halted when Tymal Mills castled Kyle Mayers in the fourth over and Gous was caught behind off Wahidullah Zadran in the fifth over.

Coming at number four, Pepper took flight early in the innings, creaming Mark Adair for three consecutive boundaries. Pepper went on to log a 31-ball fifty including six fours and a six. Along with the support of Joe Clarke, the pair built a 50-run partnership in 33 balls.

It looked like the Knight Riders were on track for a massive total until Aayan turned the tide, returning enviable figures of 4 for 16 – the best figures for a UAE player in the ILT20 (the previous record holder was Zuhaib Zuhair with 4 for 22 for Gulf Giants against Sharjah Warriorz in 2024).

Aayan opened his account when he cleaned up Joe Clarke for 24 runs in the 11th over. He followed it up with the wickets of Alishan Sharafu, Andrew Russell and Sunil Narine, of whom only Andre Russell made it to double figures with 12 runs. At the end of Aayan’s spell, the Knight Riders were at 131/6 in 15 overs.

In the death overs, Pepper was caught behind off Mark Adair for 57 runs, while Laurie Evans, Jason Holder and David Willey made small contributions. Blessing Muzarabani snatched two wickets in Evans and Holder as the Knight Riders finished proceedings at 176/9.

Brief Scores

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders beat Gulf Giants by 37 runs

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 176/9 in 20 overs (Michael Pepper 57, Joe Clarke 24, Kyle Mayers 19, Aayan Afzal Khan 4 for 16, Blessing Muzarabani 2 for 28)

Gulf Giants 139/8 in 20 overs (Gerhard Erasmus 24, Shimron Hetmyer 20, Mark Adair 19, Ali Khan 2 for 23, Jason Holder 2 for 25, Ibrar Ahmad 2 for 27)

Source: khaleejtimes
 
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ILT20: Dubai Capitals snap Desert Vipers' winning streak in six-wicket triumph​

Desert Vipers suffered their first defeat of the ILT20 Season 3 when they lost to Dubai Capitals by six wickets at Dubai International Stadium on Monday.

After being put into bat, Vipers were bowled out for 139 in 19.5 overs with opener Alex Hales, the top-scorer, making 34.

Dushmantha Chameera and Zahir Khan took three wickets each.

In reply, Dubai Capitals achieved the target in 17.4 overs losing only four wickets as Gulbadin Naib made a sparkling 78 off 51 balls.

Capitals moved up to the fourth position with their second win of the campaign.

"We were at the bottom of the table, so we were looking for momentum. There's still a long way to go. It's not easy facing bowlers of this quality. Luckily, I gave myself some time. After the drinks break, the staff told me I was looking good, so I said to Sikandar (Raza), I will play to my strengths,” Naib said.

Despite the defeat, Vipers remained on top of the table in the six-team league with eight points from five matches.

"It was a tough one. We were probably a few runs short and had some chances," Desert Vipers captain Lockie Ferguson said.

"They bowled well, and the pitch spun. There's a quick turnaround again, but the boys have been batting beautifully."

On Tuesday, third-placed Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will face second-placed MI Emirates at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Brief Scores

Dubai Capitals beat Desert Vipers by six wickets

Desert Vipers 139/10 in 19.5 overs (Alex Hales 34, Sherfane Rutherford 27, Dan Lawrence 24, Dushmantha Chameera 3 for 26, Zahir Khan 3 for 34, Haider Ali 1 for 17)

Dubai Capitals 140/4 in 17.4 overs (Gulbadin Naib 78 not out, Sikandar 24, Ben Dunk 13, Lockie Ferguson 2 for 29, Mohammad Amir 1 for 31)

Source: khaleejtimes
 
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ILT20: Shepherd, Pooran power MI Emirates to important win over ADKR​

Romario Shepherd of MI Emirates plays a shot during the match against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. — Supplied photo

The MI Emirates produced a clinical display with the bat and the ball, handing the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders a 28-run defeat at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Tuesday.

The MI Emirates had the likes of Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran to thank for the win as they played a crucial part in helping their side get to within two points of the table toppers.

The MI Emirates’ bowlers were in fine form on the night, with four of them picking a wicket each, while Alzarri Joseph and Shepherd bagged two each to derail the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ chase.

Put into bat first, the MI Emirates started off well, with openers Kusal Perera and Muhammad Waseem (38) put on a fine stand at the top. After the duo put on a 42-run stand, the Sri Lankan Perera was the first to depart for 23, just before the end of the powerplay. In walked Tom Banton, and along with Waseem ensured the MI Emirates kept the scoreboard ticking.

Halfway into the innings, Banton was dismissed for nine, and soon after Waseem followed suit for 38. Skipper Nicholas Pooran was joined by Kieron Pollard, but the veteran right-hander found it tough to get going, and was eventually knocked over by Ali Khan for five. At this point, the score read 102/4, with just over 6 overs to go.

Dan Mousley was the next to fall for six, after which Romario Shepherd joined his captain for the final phase of the innings.

Pooran, who was striking it cleanly, was closing in on his half-century before Jason Holder had his number after a well-made 49. That put the focus on Shepherd in the final few overs. The big-hitting right-hander then went through the gears and smashed three maximums along with four boundaries, to finish with an unbeaten 38 from 13 deliveries. The MI Emirates, who had slowed down for a few overs in the middle, eventually posted 186/6.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders got off to a quick start, as openers Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous took the attack to the MI Emirates bowlers. Mayers, who smashed three sixes, scored 22 off 14 deliveries, before Dan Mousley ran him out with a fine a piece of fielding. That ended a 39-run stand in the fourth over, after which the MI Emirates took control.

Akeal Hosein dismissed Joe Clarke for three, after which Romario Shepherd accounted for Michael-Kyle Pepper for five and Alishan Sharafu for four. At the end of an action-packed Powerplay, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were 56/4.

Waqar Salamkheil cleaned up Laurie Evans for seven, and Zahoor Khan then had Gous caught out in the deep for 34, which put further pressure on the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. That brought Sunil Narine and Andre Russell to the middle, and the big-hitting batters put on a half-century stand, raising hopes of a comeback. However, in the 18th over, Narine was caught at cover for 13, and then Fazalhaq Farooqi cleaned up David Willey in the 19th. Russell, who remained unbeaten on 37 from 23 deliveries could not take his side over the line as the MI Emirates came away with a comfortable win on the night.

“It feels good, and we knew how important this game was. I was relaxed because Nicholas Pooran was there and I was just trying to get to the last over and see what I could get. Whenever you do well in one department it gives you confidence,” Shepherd, who was named player-of-the-match, said.

Brief Scores

MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs

MI Emirates 186/6 in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 49, Romario Shepherd 38 not out, Muhammad Waseem 38, Jason Holder 2 for 38, Ali Khan 2 for 58)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 158/9 in 20 overs (Andre Russell 37 not out, Andries Gous 34, Romario Shepherd 2/14, Alzarri Joseph 2/33, Waqar Salamkheil 1/13)

Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd

Source: Khaleej Times
 
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ILT20: Pakistan stars Zaman, Amir shine as Desert Vipers beat Sharjah Warriorz​

The Desert Vipers got back to winning ways at Season 3 of the ILT20 as they put up a scintillating performance to outclass the Sharjah Warriorz and clinch a massive 10-wicket victory at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday.

The Desert Vipers rode on Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten 71 off 39 balls and Mohammad Amir’s four-wicket haul to cruise to an emphatic win that consolidated their position atop the standings.

Having restricted Sharjah to 91 all out, Desert Vipers wasted no time in their chase as Alex Hales (23 not out off 21 balls) got them off to a flyer with a flurry of boundaries. Zaman joined in on the action with some clean hitting as he dismantled the Sharjah attack with magnificent stroke-play as the Vipers reached home in just 10 overs.

Earlier, the Desert Vipers won the toss and chose to bowl. That proved to be a brilliant decision as Amir weaved his magic with the new ball. The Pakistani pacer needed just four deliveries to make his intentions clear as Johnson Charles flicked it off his pads straight to Dan Lawrence along the ropes at deep backward square. Amir would pick up two wickets in his first over as he sent Avishka Fernando back to the pavilion too.

Amir came back to haunt the Sharjah Warriorz batting line-up as he made full use of the pitch. A slightly shorter delivery undid Rohan Mustafa, who tried to flick it away on the leg side, but only got a leading edge and Sam Curran took a simple catch.

Amir finished with an impressive 4/24, which is the best bowling performance in the Desert Vipers’ history. Wanindu Hasaranga also claimed a piece of history as his 3/10 was the most economical four-over spell in ILT20.

“As a new-ball bowler, you try to swing the ball. I believe you have to bowl according to the wicket and hit the right areas," said Amir.

"You need to adapt as quickly as you can to conditions, as a bowler. We have got a great bowling unit.”

Brief scores:

Desert Vipers beat Sharjah Warriorz by 10 wickets

Sharjah Warriorz 91/10 in 19.1 overs (Jason Roy 30 not out, Harmeet Singh 11, Mohammad Amir 4 for 24, Wanindu Hasaranga 3 for 10, Sam Curran 2 for 14)

Desert Vipers 95/0 in 10 overs (Fakhar Zaman 71 not out, Alex Hales 23 not out)

Player of the match: Mohammad Amir

Source: Khaleej Times
 
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Our Bowlers Delivered an Exceptional, Munaf Patel

Dubai Capitals delivered a masterful performance to halt the Desert Vipers' unbeaten run with a convincing six-wicket victory at the Dubai International Stadium. The win was orchestrated through a clinical bowling display, with Dushmantha Chameera and Zahir Khan each claiming three wickets to restrict the Vipers to 139.

Former Indian cricketer Munaf Patel now Assistant Coach of Dubai Capitals, expressed satisfaction with the team's performance; "Our recent form had dipped slightly, with three consecutive losses, but today our bowlers delivered an exceptional performance. The pitch conditions worked in our favor from the moment we started bowling."

Reflecting on the team's strategy, Patel added; "We gave our players complete freedom to express themselves, whether it was about scoring runs or rotating the strike. We had confidence in our batting depth, with three capable batsmen still in reserve. Today's victory wasn't just about breaking their streak; it was about executing our plans perfectly."

Patel also praised the team's tactical approach; "Our bowling unit's performance today showcased their true potential. The conditions suited our style, and the decision to bowl first proved crucial in setting up this victory. The team demonstrated great character in bouncing back from our recent setbacks."

The Dubai Capitals will look to maintain their winning momentum when they face Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in their next fixture at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday 26th of January. With this crucial victory boosting team morale, the Capitals aim to climb higher in the tournament standings and secure their position in the playoff race.
 

ILT20: Sizzling Shanaka helps Dubai Capitals beat Gulf Giants​

Dubai Capitals moved up to the third spot in the ILT20 Season 3 with an impressive five-wicket win over Gulf Giants at Dubai International Stadium on Thursday.

After electing to bowl, the Capitals restricted the Giants to 153/5 in 20 overs despite Jordan Cox's 53-ball 70.

In reply, the Capitals were in trouble at 4-77 in 12.2 overs as the UAE spinner Aayan Afzal Khan (4-0-23-2) impressed again with the ball.

West Indies batter Shai Hope (47) top-scored for the Capitals, but when he fell to Blessing Muzarabani with the team still needing 43 runs off 23 ball, it was anybody's game.

Dasun Shanaka (34 not out off 10 balls) then joined skipper Sikandar Raza (26 not out off 15 balls) in the middle and the Sri Lankan launched a stunning counter-attack to drag the Capitals over the line for their third win of the season.

Gulf Giants’ captain James Vince admitted that Shanaka took the game away in the final three overs.

“Shanaka was able to strike it cleanly and he took it away from us in the last three overs. It was a much better performance from us overall and we felt it was a decent score,” Vince said.

On Friday, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will take on MI Emirates at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Brief Scores

Dubai Capitals beat Gulf Giants by 5 wickets

Gulf Giants 153/5 in 20 overs (Jordan Cox – 70, Gerhard Erasmus – 29, Dushmantha Chameera – 1 for 31, Zahir Khan – 1 for 32)

Dubai Capitals 154/5 in 18.4 overs (Shai Hope -47, Dasun Shanaka – 34 not out, Sikandar Raza – 27 not out, Aayan Khan – 2 for 23, Muhammad Zuhaib – 1 for 22)

Source: Khaleej Times
 
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ILT20: UAE batsman Alishan stars for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders​

Alishan Sharafu, Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers played defining roles for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, as they defeated the MI Emirates by 42 runs at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Friday in Season 3 of DP World ILT20.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders moved to third place on the points table with the win, and Sharafu came away with the Player of the match award.

Thanks to Sharafu's brilliant 55, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders made 182 for seven in 20 overs.

In reply, MI Emirates were never in the hunt and eventually managed to score only 140/6 in 20 overs.

Batting first, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders had a slow start, and midway through the powerplay, they lost Kyle Mayers for 11 and Michael-Kyle Pepper for a duck, off consecutive deliveries to Alzarri Joseph. Andries Gous and Charith Asalanka then absorbed the pressure, and steadied the ship with a couple of very handy contributions.

The duo put on 41 runs together before Gous was caught behind for 27. That brought Sharafu to the middle.

The UAE youngster who along with Asalanka, started to set up the platform for a big finish. Asalanka, who hit three boundaries and a six, scored 32 and was dismissed by Zahoor Khan in the 12th over.

From then on in, Sharafu and Roston Chase took charge, with the 22-year-old UAE cricketer starting to go through the gears. Sharafu played some exquisite shots, whilst Chase kept the momentum going as well.

They put on a 72-run partnership from 39 deliveries, after which Chase retired for 20, bringing in the dangerous Andre Russell for the final two overs.

Russell started off with a big six but was castled on the next delivery. At the other end though, Sharafu brought up his half-century and had Jason Holder for company. Sharafu continued his attack and finished with 55 to his name, whilst Holder added a quick 22 not out from seven deliveries, to help the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders reach 182/7 in their 20 overs.

“It was a pretty special one, and I didn't get many in all the other games, so wanted to cash in today," said Sharafu who was named man-of-the-match.

"The wicket was a bit on the slower side, but once you bat a few balls you can try to take it from there.”

MI Emirates could not keep the asking rate under control after losing early wickets in their chase as Kieron Pollard's 69 went in vain.

“Losing four wickets in the powerplay was tough during the chase," MI Emirates skipper Nichloas Pooran said.

"They also had a good left-right combination going, they had a good partnership that pushed the game forward.”

Brief Scores

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders beat MI Emirates by 42 runs

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 182/7 in 20 overs (Alishan Sharafu – 55, Charith Asalanka – 32, Jason Holder – 22 not out, Alzarri Joseph – 3 for 32, Fazalhaq Farooqi – 1 for 27)

MI Emirates 140/6 in 20 overs (Kieron Pollard – 69 not out, Muhammad Waseem – 19, Kyle Mayers – 3 for 25, Jason Holder – 2 for 28)

Player of the match: Alishan Sharafu

Source: Khaleej Times
 
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A dramatic moment unfolded in the ILT20 clash between MI Emirates and Gulf Giants on Saturday when Nicholas Pooran ran out Tom Curran in the 18th over of a tense chase. Curran, having completed a single, was deemed out after Pooran removed the bails before the ball was declared dead. The third umpire upheld the decision, mirroring Jonny Bairstow’s controversial dismissal in the 2023 Ashes.

However, MI Emirates’ Tom Banton intervened, asking Curran to return, signaling the withdrawal of the appeal. Although Curran was dismissed shortly after, Gulf Giants secured a thrilling last-ball victory by two wickets. The incident reignited the "Spirit of Cricket" debate, with many praising Emirates' sportsmanship.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1883228787963551849
 
Dubai Capitals script history with record chase against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Fans were treated to a thrilling run-fest at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Sunday afternoon as the Dubai Capitals pulled off a stunning eight-wicket victory over the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the DP World ILT20 Season 3. Chasing a daunting 204, the Capitals were powered by match-winning performances from Shai Hope and Gulbadin Naib in a sensational 135-run partnership that laid the foundation for the largest run chase in the league's history. Hope’s composed half-century and Naib’s explosive 80 were pivotal in the Capitals’ triumph. Earlier, Charith Asalanka set the stage for a high-scoring spectacle, with standout performance of 74 runs in 34 balls.

Faced with a mammoth target, Adam Rossington and Shai Hope kept the Capitals in the hunt with 54 runs in the powerplay. Rossington registered a quick fire 21 runs in 13 balls before he was dismissed by Andre Russell in the fifth over.

Shai Hope, extending his purple patch, reached his third half century of the league in 34 balls striking four fours and two sixes on his way there. Hope was joined by Gulbadin Naib. Naib’s restrained start saw him collect just one boundary in his first 27 runs, but he shifted gears soon after, taking charge of the chase and racing to his half-century, also off 34 balls. Between the 13th and 17th over, the Capitals scored 71 runs to inch within striking distance of their target. The partnership of 135 runs was finally broken when Jason Holder’s slower one saw the end of Naib in the 18th over. Naib finished his innings with 80 runs in 47 balls, including four fours and five sixes.

With two overs to go, the Capitals needed 26 runs. Dasun Shanaka who had just walked in had an instant impact, taking down Andre Russell for two fours and a six in the 19th over ensuring the Capitals reached the target in 19.5 overs and thereby completing the largest run chase in the history of the competition. Dasun Shanaka remained unbeaten with 17 runs in eight balls.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders asserted their dominance with a 63-run partnership between openers, Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous. Gous exploited the powerplay to carve out six boundaries in his 27 runs off 17 balls before falling to Obed McCoy. Mayers smashed 35 from 21 balls, including four fours and two sixes, until Sikandar Raza dismissed him in the seventh over to briefly quell the run rate. Raza struck again in the eighth, removing Michael Pepper for 10, leaving the Knight Riders at 82/3 in 8.2 overs.

The momentum shifted dramatically as Charith Asalanka and Alishan Sharafu unleashed an onslaught on the Capitals’ bowlers. Dropped multiple times, the duo punished the fielding errors by amassing 105 runs in just 52 deliveries. Asalanka’s commanding 74 off 38 balls featured six fours and four sixes, while Sharafu added a swift 36 from 21 balls before retiring hurt in the 17th over.

Dushmantha Chameera restored some control at the death, dismissing Asalanka and conceding just six runs across his last two overs. However, the damage had been done, as the Knight Riders surged to 203/4, their highest-ever total in the DP World ILT20 and the highest first innings total of the season.

Player of the Match Gulbadin Naib said: "Shai and I were just looking to rotate the strike at one stage, but after the 14th over, we shifted the momentum. T20 cricket should always be entertaining for the crowd. If you observe the opposition and they look worried, it means you are doing well. I am available to bat at any position. As an athlete, you must always prepare for any situation and never give excuses to your captain. This is something I have always followed in my career."

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders captain Sunil Narine said: "Our batting needed to step up today, and thankfully, it did. However, I don’t think we did a fantastic job with the ball. It’s a good pitch, and credit to them—they batted well. If we’re not taking wickets, we’re allowing the batting team to get back into the game. Asalanka played a brilliant role; having a left-hander in the lineup allows us to bat deeper and counter spinners effectively. In the end, someone must win, and someone must lose.”

Brief Scores

Dubai Capitals beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by eight wickets

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 203/4 in 20 overs (Charith Asalanka 74, Alishan Sharafu 36 retired hurt, Kyle Mayers 35, Sikandar Raza 2/24)

Dubai Capitals 207/2 in 19.5 overs (Gulbadin Naib 80, Shai Hope 70, Andre Russell 1 for 38, Jason Holder 1 for 40)
 
Alsop’s heroic 85* steers Gulf Giants to emphatic six-wicket win against Sharjah Warriorz

Tom Alsop played a blinder as he struck an unbeaten 85* to propel the Gulf Giants to a marvelous six-wicket win against the Sharjah Warriorz in the DP World ILT20 Season 3 clash at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday evening. Alsop was the architect of the Gulf Giants’ chance as he held his bat to see through the win alongside Tom Curran as the two Englishmen put up a match-winning stand of 65 for their second win on the trot.

Chasing 172 was always going to be tricky, but Alsop and James Vince did splendidly well to get the Gulf Giants going. The duo hit six fours between them in the first three overs to make their intentions clear, but their impressive partnership of 42 was cut short by Dilshan Madushanka when Vince was undone by a short ball. Alsop was joined by Jordan Cox in the middle and they put up 22 for the second wicket before Cox was dismissed. Alsop, though, was unperturbed on the other end as he played one of the best innings of his career.

He took the bowlers to the cleaners as the Gulf Giants racked up 88 runs in the first 10 overs, well-poised to chase down the target. Alsop brought up his first fifty in the DP World ILT20 off 44 balls and with the pressure rising, his calm head prevailed as he steered his side closer to the target.

Gerhard Erasmus (10) and Shimron Hetmyer (12) fell without troubling the scorers much and that threatened to derail the Gulf Giants’ chase, but the 16th over swiftly swung the momentum in their favour. Curran chipped in with a couple of boundaries and Alsop dispatched one into the stands as Madushanka conceded 18 and the Gulf Giants needed 40 off 24.

Alsop and Curran were not to be stopped as they motored on, playing sensible cricket to get the job done. They picked on Adam Milne in the 18th over and hit him for 16 runs, as they raced closer to the target. Alsop brought his A-Game to the fore to hit an unbeaten 85* as the Gulf Giants sealed a comprehensive victory in Sharjah.

Earlier, the Gulf Giants won the toss and opted to bowl. Johnson Charles and Tom Kohler-Cadmore got the Sharjah Warriorz off to a flyer as they stitched together a solid opening partnership that laid the foundation for their innings. Kohler-Cadmore did the bulk of the scoring early on, but once Charles got going, it was hard to stop him. He hit Daniel Worrall for 18 runs before falling on the final ball of the sixth over for 30 off 19.

The Warriorz amassed 57 in the powerplay and looked well-placed to hit that 200-run mark but a middle-order slump saw their run rate drop drastically. Blessing Muzarabani struck in the eighth over to get Kohler-Cadmore for 29 before Avishka Fernando was sent back for six in the next over. From a commanding position, the Sharjah Warriorz were now reeling at 79/3 at the halfway mark.

Jason Roy’s arrival offered the Sharjah Warriorz some much-needed stability as he kept the scoreboard ticking. The Englishman struck Curran for three boundaries as he lifted his side to 140-4 with three overs remaining. The game turned on its head in Muzarabani’s 18th over when he conceded a six off his first ball but regrouped well to pick up two wickets, including the prized wicket of Roy for 44. Ashton Agar clobbered a flurry of boundaries at the death to help the Sharjah Warriorz to a solid total of 171, which was later successfully chased down by the Gulf Giants.

Meanwhile, the Desert Vipers became the first team to qualify for the playoffs of the DP World ILT20 after their eight-wicket win over the Sharjah Warriorz on Saturday. They’ve enjoyed a superb campaign so far, winning six of their seven matches, and move a step closer to winning their maiden title.

Tim Southee, captain of the Sharjah Warriorz said: “We were in it for a majority of the game. It was a pretty good score. We have three games left, hopefully we can salvage something.”

Player of the match, Tom Alsop said: “It was nice to spend some time out there. The conditions were very different from last night, I just tried to soak in the pressure and grind out. Today it was a bit more batter-friendly.”

Brief scores:

Gulf Giants beat Sharjah Warriorz by six wickets.

Sharjah Warriorz 171/6 in 20 overs (Jason Roy 44, Johnson Charles 30, Blessing Muzarabani 3 for 32)

Gulf Giants 172/4 in 19.3 overs (Tom Alsop 85*, Tom Curran 26*, James Vince 24, Dilshan Madushanka 2 for 49)

Player of the Match: Tom Alsop
 
Banton and Fletcher shatter records as MI Emirates humble Desert Vipers by 154 runs

Tom Banton etched his name in DP World ILT20 history, becoming the first batter to score two centuries in the competition as MI Emirates cruised to a commanding 154-run victory over table-toppers Desert Vipers at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Monday. The triumph also marked the second highest margin for a victory in the DP World ILT20.

Banton combined with Andre Fletcher to construct the highest stand for any wicket in T20s on UAE soil at 198 runs. Andre Fletcher remained unbeaten on 96 runs, while Banton scored 105 runs to steer the MI Emirates to 228/2 - the second highest total in the DP World ILT20 history.

In response, the Vipers only managed 74 runs matching the record for the lowest score across three seasons of the DP World ILT20. Muhammad Rohid made early inroads as he sent back Fakhar Zaman for only seven runs in the second over. Rohid went on to claim Sam Curran and Azam Khan later in the innings as well to finish with figures of 3 for 24.

Meanwhile, Fazalhaq Farooqi claimed the dangerous Alex Hales, while Alzarri Joseph bagged Dan Lawrence and Adam Hose to leave the Vipers reeling at 32/5 by the end of the powerplay.

With only two batters crossing double figures the Vipers were eventually bowled out for 74 runs in 12.3 overs. Dan Mousley picked up two wickets, while Farooqi and Alzarri picked up a wicket each to sweep up the tail.

Invited to bat first, the MI Emirates lost Muhammad Waseem after he struck two consecutive sixes off Dhruv Parashar, to Mohammad Amir in the third over. Amir was economical in the powerplay only conceding 13 runs as the MI Emirates finished the first six overs at 40/1.

What followed was destruction from Tom Banton and Andre Fletcher. The duo initially played with restraint, taking 37 balls to put together their first 41 runs. But the tide turned in the 10th over when Banton took on Nathan Sowter, smashing him for a six and a four in a 16-run over.

Fletcher brought up his half-century off 32 balls, with Banton following suit in 38 deliveries. From there, it was pure carnage. The pair plundered 92 runs in the final five overs of the MI Emirates innings.

Banton was the star of the show, reaching his second century of the season in just 52 balls. His knock, laced with nine fours and seven sixes, included three consecutive sixes off Dan Lawrence. Banton became the first batter in the tournament’s history to score two centuries, before being run out for 105 in the final over.

Andre Fletcher was not far behind as he remained unbeaten on 96 runs in 50 balls, studded with 10 fours and three sixes as the MI Emirates were catapulted to 228/2 in 20 overs.

Player of the match, Tom Banton said: "I didn't get off to a flier; I just knew the longer I stayed, the better chance I had. Sometimes you don't time it as well as you'd like, and sometimes you do. As a top-order batter, you come up against very good bowlers, so having a good technique is important. It's about looking at the match situation and scenario, not just teeing off. We came into this game on the back of two losses and were a bit under pressure. It's a special night for MI Emirates, but we don't want to take it for granted."

Captaining the Desert Vipers in place of Lockie Ferguson who was rested for the encounter, Sam Curran said: "We just get the game out of the way and move on. That can happen in cricket. We were a little off with our fielding and energy. It’s such a quick tournament, and we play again the day after tomorrow, so we’ll have another chance. We can bounce back, and there’s no need to panic. It’s about learning and reflecting. Both of them played well, and I’m glad to see my fellow Englishman, and Fletcher, playing so well.”

Brief Scores

MI Emirates beat Desert Vipers by 154 runs

MI Emirates 228/2 in 20 overs (Tom Banton 105, Andre Fletcher 96 not out, Muhammad Waseem 19, Mohammad Amir 1 for 36)

Desert Vipers 74/10 in 12.3 overs (Azam Khan 12, Sam Curran 11, Muhammad Rohid 3 for 24, Alzarri Joseph 3 for 17, Dan Mousley 2 for 8, Fazalhaq Farooqi 2 for 10)
 
Horrendous performance by Vipers. Glad they got it out of the system before the play offs. That was a 0/10 effort today.
 
Johnson Charles’ quick-fire 71 dominates as Sharjah Warriorz overwhelm Dubai Capitals by nine wickets

Johnson Charles ignited the Dubai International Stadium, leading the Sharjah Warriorz to a resounding nine-wicket victory on Tuesday night. His breathtaking knock of 71 runs in 33 balls set up a flawless run chase in only 11.5 overs as the Warriorz maintained their undefeated record against the Dubai Capitals in the DP World ILT20. An impactful show from the spinners including two wickets for 28 runs from Adam Zampa in the first innings restricted the Dubai Capitals to 131/9. The result gives the Warriorz’s net run rate a significant boost, keeping them firmly in the fray for a playoff berth.

The powerplay made the chase a mere formality as Johnson Charles and Tom Kohler-Cadmore dominated the bowling to set the highest powerplay score of the season. The pair raced to 79 runs in just six overs, with Charles in particular wreaking havoc to smash five towering sixes, including a remarkable 24-run over off Zahir Khan.

Charles brought up his fifty in 21 balls, studded with six sixes and two fours. He continued his rampage until he was halted by Sikandar Raza in the 11th over. Charles departed after striking three fours and eight sixes, which included a combination of power hitting, deft touches and switch-hits.

Tom Kohler-Cadmore wrapped up proceedings in the next over with a clever boundary off Dushmantha Chameera. The Englishman finished with 54 runs in 32 balls, smashing eight fours and two sixes on his way there.
Earlier in the day, Adam Rossington bludgeoned a six and two fours as the powerplay saw 55 runs for the Capitals. Shai Hope played second fiddle to Rossington until the latter was accounted for by Adam Zampa in the seventh over for 37 runs in 23 balls.

Following the powerplay there was a steep drop in the run-rate. While Shai Hope occupied one end, batting with restraint, the wickets tumbled around him as the spinners dominated the middle overs. Zampa claimed another when he dismissed Gulbadin Naib, and skipper Sikandar Raza was removed by Ashton Agar. In the same over, Najibullah Zadran was run out to leave the Capitals in hot water at 85/4 in 12 overs.

UAE’s Rohan Mustafa kept the pressure on with the wickets of Khalid Shah and Dasun Shanaka to expose the tail. Meanwhile Hope’s stint at the crease came to an end for 45 runs in 52 balls at the hand of Tim Southee in the 18th over. Rovman Powell provided a flicker of hope with an unbeaten 32 runs in only 16 balls, peppered with three fours and two sixes but the Dubai Capitals finished the innings at a below-par score of 131/9 in 20 overs.

Player of the match, Johnson Charles said: “They got off to a bit of a flier, but I love playing in Dubai because the conditions tend to get a bit skiddier, which suits my style. I thought Ashton Agar and Rohan Mustafa bowled exceptionally well and complemented each other perfectly. We managed to put the opposition under pressure. Ash and I have played a lot together in the past, and it’s always a pleasure to play alongside him. It felt almost nostalgic since we haven’t had many opportunities to play together recently.”

Dubai Capitals captain, Sikandar Raza said: “I thought we were traditional in our batting. We needed more sweeps, reverse sweeps and switch hits. We went into a shell rather than being aggressive. Johnson is a fantastic player and done that to many teams; it was quite hard to bowl at him. He played a lot of great shots. One bad game is not going to derail us. We will try to get this game out of system and winning the next two is the target.”

Brief Scores

Sharjah Warriorz beat Dubai Capitals by nine wickets

Dubai Capitals 131/9 in 20 overs (Shai Hope 45, Adam Rossington 37, Rovman Powell 32 not out, Rohan Mustafa 2 for 12, Adam Zampa 2 for 28)
Sharjah Warriorz 135/1 in 11.5 overs (Johnson Charles 71, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 54 not out, Sikandar Raza 1 for 9)
 
Desert Vipers clinch top-two finish with dominant win over Gulf Giants

The Desert Vipers restored their authority as table-toppers with a comprehensive five-wicket victory against the Gulf Giants. A composed knock of 70 runs in 54 balls from Max Holden ensured they cruised home in 19 overs at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday. Having already sealed a playoff spot, the Vipers cemented a top-two finish with this win.

Earlier in the contest, three-wicket hauls from Wanindu Hasaranga and Sam Curran limited the Giants to a meagre score of 129/8 despite Tom Curran’s late flourish of 64 runs in 34 balls, with nine fours and a six.

The Desert Vipers lost both openers in the powerplay, as Mark Adair removed Alex Hales and Blessing Muzarabani picked up Fakhar Zaman within the first four overs. Both wickets were the result of spectacular catches by Chris Jordan and Tom Curran respectively, leading the Vipers to finish the fielding restrictions at 42/2.

While Dan Lawrence fell cheaply to Chris Jordan, Max Holden, who came in at number three, found the middle of the bat consistently. He joined Sam Curran in a 45-run partnership in 42 balls until Curran holed out to a great catch by James Vince, off Muzarabani.

Though the run chase stayed heavily skewed in favour of the Vipers, they never got significantly ahead of the equation, needing 33 runs in the final five overs. Holden reached a 42-ball fifty, including six fours and a six, but Muzarabani’s third wicket in Azam Khan, offered the Giants a glimmer of hope.

However, Holden remained unbeaten alongside Adam Hose in a composed alliance of 32 runs in 21 balls to steer the Vipers home in 19 overs.

Batting first, it was a tough outing for the Gulf Giants. James Vince was dismissed for 15 runs by Sam Curran as the Giants only mustered 31 runs in the powerplay.

Wanindu Hasaranga emerged as the most potent threat, slicing through the Giants' top order. He bowled Tom Alsop for 17 off 26 balls in the seventh over, then trapped Jordan Cox LBW for a mere three runs, reducing the Giants to 44/4 at the halfway mark.

Khuzaima Tanveer added to the Giants' woes by removing Shimron Hetmyer in the ninth over. Sam Curran compounded their troubles with a sharp return catch to dismiss Gerhard Erasmus.

Tim David briefly rallied, launching Lockie Ferguson for a six in the 13th over, but he was dismissed on the very next ball looking for the same outcome, leaving the Giants reeling at 58/6.

Hasaranga struck again, pinning Jordan Cox on the pads for his third wicket of the night. The Giants seemed on the brink of collapse. However, Tom Curran reinvigorated the innings smashing a 30-ball fifty. He took apart his brother, Sam Curran in the 19th over, clobbering two fours and a six in what turned out to be the most productive over of the innings. Another 14 runs from Tom Curran in the final over pushed the Giants to a total of 129/8 at the end of their turn.

Player of the Match, Wanindu Hasaranga said: “I tried to stick to my basics and the wrong ones, that's my plan for success. I love to bowl here, even in the Asia Cup as well I took wickets. The fast bowlers did a great job, and the batters did their jobs, so as a team we have done our things well.”

Gulf Giants captain, James Vince said: “It wasn't a great performance with the bat. 130 was always tough to defend. The first 10 overs of the batting innings put us on the back foot. At one stage we were looking at less than 100, until Tom Curran and Aayan’s partnership gave us some relief. We fought well with the ball and took it as far as we could but a little short with the bat.”

Brief Scores

Desert Vipers beat Gulf Giants by five wickets
Gulf Giants 129/8 in 20 overs (Tom Curran 64 not out, Tom Alsop 17, James Vince 15, Wanindu Hasaranga 3 for 10, Sam Curran 3 for 28, Khuzaima Tanveer 1 for 12)
Desert Vipers 130/5 in 19 overs (Max Holden 70 not out, Sam Curran 16, Fakhar Zaman 14, Blessing Muzarabani 3 for 35)
 
Top-scorers of ILT 2025, No pakistani batter in the list. I don't think they were meant to be here.. WHO??? AZAM KHAN? LOL

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Charles, Zampa propel Sharjah Warriorz closer to playoff spot, beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by four wickets

The Sharjah Warriorz put up a spirited performance as they banked on Johnson Charles’ 65 and some fine bowling from Adam Zampa and Adam Milne to soar to a four-wicket win against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the DP World ILT20 clash at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

The win serves as a massive boost to the Warriorz chances of making it past the group stages as they climb from the sixth to third spot with eight points in nine matches.

Chasing 162, the Sharjah Warriorz were on the money from the get-go as Charles and Tom Kohler-Cadmore came out all guns blazing. They hit Ibrar Ahmad for a whopping 24 runs in the fourth over and then Kohler-Cadmore found his groove as he struck 18 in four balls against Vijayakanth Viyaskanth before holing out to deep mid-wicket. The Englishman’s brisk 39 off 21 saw the Warriorz coast to 75/1 at the end of the powerplay, scoring at a blistering pace that was almost double the required run rate.

Charles did the bulk of the scoring thereon, going after every bowler including opposition captain Sunil Narine, while Rohan Mustafa was happy to play second fiddle. Mustafa eventually fell to Narine for six runs and the run rate graph saw a slight dip, but that didn’t deter Charles.

The Knight Riders had a chance to pick up two key wickets and claw their way back into the contest, but some sloppy fielding cost them dear. First, Charles was dropped in the 11th and he made the most of it to bring up his half century in style with a classy boundary. In the very next over, Roston Chase could not hold onto Jason Roy’s leading edge as both the Sharjah Warriorz batsmen were given a lifeline.

The home side eased their way closer to the target as Charles showcased his batting abilities. One of the best shots he played on the evening was when he moved to his right, got low and scooped David Willey for a superb boundary.


Charles looked set for a big innings but eventually fell to Narine after a match-winning knock of 65. Roy also departed soon after as Jason Holder bowled a stunning wicket maiden 16th over. The Warriorz needed 16 runs in 24 deliveries and appeared to be in the driver’s seat but surprisingly suffered a collapse.

Tim Seifert and Ethan D’Souza fell in quick succession as the Warriorz lost three wickets for two runs. From being in complete control, they now found themselves in a spot of bother at 148/6, needing 14 from 16.

In came Ashton Agar to get the job done. The Australian approached the pressure situation with a cool head and got a head start as he smashed Terrance Hinds for a massive six in the 19th. Agar picked up four more runs off the over, leaving his side with just two runs to chase in the final over. Harmeet Singh sealed the win off the first ball as the Warriorz snapped up a four-wicket win.

Earlier, Milne gave the Sharjah Warriorz the perfect start as he dismissed Andries Gous for a golden duck with a peach of a delivery. Joe Clarke smashed Milne for three successive boundaries in his next over but it was the bowler who had the last laugh as Clarke nicked it behind to the keeper. Milne accounted for both openers and the Knight Riders were down to 33/2 after three overs.

Chase survived a couple of close calls, and he made the most of it as he stitched together a superb partnership with Kyle Mayers. The duo put up 58 runs for the third wicket before Zampa got the breakthrough as Chase departed after a whirlwind 28. The Knight Riders had 91 runs on the board at the halfway mark and were in good stead with Mayers firing in all cylinders.

The West Indian took charge of the Knight Riders’ batting as he brought up his fifty off just 29 deliveries and had Alishan Sharafu for company at the other end. It looked like Mayers would power his side to a huge total when Zampa struck again with the all-important wicket. He chased a full ball and holed it out to Agar after a well-made 56.

Milne was brought back into the attack in the 15th over and struck right away to outfox Narine and then Zampa bamboozled Andre Russell for three runs as the two Warriorz bowlers made merry. The Knight Riders’ run rate took a hit as they managed 130/6 with four overs to go.

Holder played a blinder at the death as he clobbered Tim Southee for 17 runs in the penultimate over and led the Knight Riders to a decent total of 161.

Player of the match, Adam Zampa said: “I was trying to do my role and get the most important wickets to make it easier for the guys at the back end. I am a natural competitor and love getting into the contest and bowling to the best players. He (Andre Russell) has got me a few times, I got him a few times. I’m happy I got him tonight. I was actually under the pump after my first 11 balls and it was some good defensive bowling then to get out of my over. We spoke about the match-up with Dre Russ. He hits it out of the park but luckily, he didn't that time. It was obviously a big wicket.”

Sunil Narine, captain of the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders said: “We were in the fight till the end. I think we could have finished off our batting innings better, we were set for 200 but got 160-odd. The key point was to control the powerplay. They played aggressive shots and got through and we were on the back foot. We got into the game (later) but it was a bit too late. We’re still in the tournament and have plenty to play for.”

Brief scores:

Sharjah Warriorz beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by four wickets.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 161/8 in 20 overs (Kyle Mayers 56, Roston Chase 33, Jason Holder 26, Adam Zampa 3 for 27, Adam Milne 3 for 33)

Sharjah Warriorz 162/6 in 19 overs (Johnson Charles 65, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 39, Sunil Narine 2 for 20, Jason Holder 2 for 22)

Player of the Match: Adam Zampa
 
The MI Emirates’ captain Nicholas Pooran was in the form of his life, as he guided his side over the line against the Gulf Giants, at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday evening, in Season 3 of the DP World ILT20. The MI Emirates won the game by five wickets and also registered their first victory of the season in Dubai. Skipper Pooran, who walked away with the player of the match award, finished unbeaten on 58 off 37 deliveries, also won the player of the match award.

Earlier in the evening, the Gulf Giants, who were put into bat first, were off to a brisk start as openers Gerhard Erasmus and James Vince found the boundaries quite regularly. The duo threatened to go big, before Akeal Hosein had Erasmus’ number for 12 in the third over.

That brought Jordan Cox to the middle alongside Vince, and the duo continued to score at a good clip, ending the powerplay with the score at 52/1. Cox and Vince attacked the bad balls and ran hard between the wickets and put on a 51-run stand. Alzarri Joseph though broke the partnership in the 10th over. Tom Curran added 13 to the cause, as Vince marched on and got to his fifty as well.

With the final phase of the innings approaching, Vince, who was motoring along, had Shimron Hetmyer for company, and the Gulf Giants had the perfect platform to tee off. A couple of eight-run overs were followed up by a 19-run 16th over, as Vince put the long handle to good use and was playing a captain’s knock. Soon after though, the MI Emirates applied the brakes on the Giants, as they claimed the wickets of Hetmyer for 15, and Vince for 86 from 50 deliveries, his highest individual score in the ILT20. Eventually, Tim David and Chris Jordan wrapped up the innings for the Giants, scoring 10 not out each, and taking the total to 173/6 in 20 overs.

In response, the MI Emirates kicked off at fifth gear. Openers Andre Fletcher and Muhammad Waseem scored freely in the early overs, hitting a flurry of boundaries. The opening stand produced 44 runs before Waseem departed for 26 off 10. Tom Banton added 11 to the cause before Aayan Khan made him his second scalp.

Vince then ran out Kusal Perera for one, but Fletcher continued to chip away at the other end. The opener scored 31 and was castled by Blessing Muzarabani, who bowled a fantastic spell of 1 for 17 in 4 overs. The wickets had slowed down the MI Emirates, who had Nicholas Pooran and Bevon Jacobs looking to resurrect the chase.

In the final five overs, the MI Emirates needed 71 runs and had six wickets in hand. Pooran and Jacobs attacked the bowling, hitting some exquisite shots during a 53-run stand off 33 balls. Jacobs got 18 after which Chris Jordan accounted for him. Captain Pooran though was leading the charge at the other end, with Romario Shepherd happy to play second fiddle.

In the 18th over, Pooran brought up his half century, and the pressure was on the Giants, as the MI Emirates were well and truly in the box seat. Shepherd added a few lusty blows in the penultimate over, as the MI Emirates went into the final over needing six runs. Pooran smashed the first ball over cow corner for a maximum, to seal a fantastic five-wicket win.

Player of the match Nicholas Pooran said, “I knew I had to get the job done and had to be there till the end. I am more experienced now and know what's required. The key is to trust yourself to absorb the pressure.”

Gulf Giants’ skipper James Vince said, “We didn't feel it was that straightforward out there. There was some turn for the slower bowlers, but we dropped a catch, and it ultimately cost us tonight. Tonight hasn't gone well for us.”

Brief Scores

MI Emirates beat Gulf Giants by five wickets

Gulf Giants - 173/6 in 20 overs (James Vince - 86, Shimron Hetmyer - 15, Muhammad Rohid Khan - 2 for 36, Waqar Salamkheil 1 for 23)

MI Emirates - 174/5 in 19.1 overs (Nicholas Pooran - 58 not out, Andre Fletcher - 31, Romario Shepherd - 23 not out, Aayan Khan - 2 for 9, Blessing Muzarabani - 1 for 17.)

Player of the match - Nicholas Pooran
 
Sharjah Warriorz storm into playoffs as Kohler-Cadmore shines in eight-wicket win against MI Emirates

Sharjah Warriorz completed a sensational comeback in the tournament as they became the third team to seal a spot in the playoffs at the DP World ILT20 Season 3. Buoyed by a stellar knock from Tom Kohler-Cadmore, the Warriorz defeated the MI Emirates by eight wickets in a must-win match, here at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The result also knocks the Gulf Giants out of the race for a playoff berth, while the Dubai Capitals and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders are in contention for the fourth spot.

Tom Kohler-Cadmore stood out with 91 runs in 52 balls in an endeavour that saw seven fours and five sixes. Matthew Wade, playing his first game of the season, also made his presence felt with a breezy knock of 44 runs in 25 balls. The victory not only also placed Sharjah Warriorz into the playoffs for the first time in the history of the competition but also marked the team’s first win against the MI Emirates across three seasons.

Earlier in the day, Tom Banton extended his purple patch to remain unbeaten on 84 runs and drove the MI Emirates to 173/5 despite Tim Southee’s frugal spell of 1 for 22 in four overs.

Though the Warriorz lost Johnson Charles early for only 14 runs, they had a lucrative powerplay with Jason Roy smoking 18 runs off Alzarri Joseph in the sixth over to finish the phase at 59/1 with Tom Kohler-Cadmore unbeaten on 24 runs at the other end.

While Roy was run out soon after for 22 runs 15 balls, Opener Tom Kohler-Cadmore was in fine form, cracking boundaries at will. Kohler-Cadmore smashed Waqar Salamkheil for a six and four on his way to a 29-ball fifty that comprised four fours and three sixes, in the 10th over.

Australia’s Matthew Wade joined Kohler-Cadmore in a 102-run stand that came in just 55 balls. Wade took the pressure of Kohler-Cadmore, taking up the onus of finding the boundaries. At the 13 over mark, the Warriorz needed 52 runs in 42 balls and were firmly in the driver’s seat.

The equation was further whittled down to 24 runs needed in 30 balls as Wade struck three sixes including two off Alzarri Joseph. The Warriorz eventually romped home in 17.2 overs.

Batting first, MI Emirates lost both openers in the powerplay, up against an economical spell from Warriorz skipper Tim Southee. Muhammad Waseem got a start but couldn’t convert falling to Southee for 21 runs. Meanwhile Andre Fletcher was run out for 11 runs as they finished the powerplay at 45/2

Tom Banton and Kusal Perera took the innings ahead with a crucial 75-run stand in 53 balls. The pair scored conservatively until they took Ashton Agar for 16 runs in the 12th. Banton followed it up with two consecutive sixes off Zampa in the next over to increase the run rate significantly.

Perera looked dangerous but he holed out to deep square leg off Dilshan Madushanka in the 15th over, bringing the score to 120/3.

The death overs were important for the Emirates, netting 47 runs as Banton cruised to his half century in 35 balls that included four boundaries and four sixes. MI Emirates captain, Nicholas Pooran was unable to replicate his exploits from the previous game as he was dismissed by Adam Milne for eight runs in the 18th over. Banton remained unbeaten on 84 runs in 51 balls, as the MI Emirates posted 173/5.

Player of the Match, Tom Kohler-Cadmore said: “We've been playing for three years, and we haven't been to the finals, that was the goal going into this season. Tim Southee bowled well and set it up today. I just want to put the pressure back on them, sometimes they'll get the better of me, but I tend to do well if I get a start, and I had some luck as well. Wade played some fine shots and eased us home. We've had a great group; the boys have been together even when we lost heavily.”

MI Emirates captain, Nicholas Pooran said: "I thought we were 10-15 runs short. We allowed them to get back into the game too many times, both with the ball and the bat. They batted well, and our fielding wasn’t great in terms of execution. We missed a few chances and were sloppy in the field. They also bowled well into the wicket and put us under pressure.”

Brief Scores

Sharjah Warriorz beat MI Emirates by eight wickets

MI Emirates 173/5 in 20 overs (Tom Banton 84 not out, Kusal Perera 31, Muhammad Waseem 21, Tim Southee 1 for 22, Dilshan Madushanka 1 for 33, Adam Milne 1 for 40)

Sharjah Warriorz 176/2 in 17.2 overs (Tom Kohler-Cadmore 91 not out, Matthew Wade 44 not out, Jason Roy 22, Fazalhaq Farooqi 1 for 22)

Player of the Match: Tom Kohler-Cadmore
 
Warner’s heroics propel Dubai Capitals into playoffs after 26-run victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

David Warner's explosive batting propelled the Dubai Capitals into the playoffs of the DP World ILT20 Season 3 after they clinched a stunning 26-run win over the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. With the win, the Dubai Capitals become the fourth and final team to seal their spot in the playoffs.

Warner, playing his first match of the season, was the game-changer as his magnificent unbeaten 93 steered the Dubai Capitals to their sixth win in seven matches against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

Chasing a steep total of 218, the Knight Riders had their task cut out as they needed an outright win to stay alive in the competition. Their batters got off to a cagey start, but once they got going, there was no stopping them. Andries Gous was the wrecker-in-chief as he clobbered six boundaries in 11 deliveries to guide his side to 50/0 at the end of the powerplay. Having set the tempo for the chase, Kyle Mayers stepped on the gas with a few clutch boundaries.

Gous and Mayers formed the foundation of the Knight Riders' chase as they looked well-set at the halfway mark at 89/0, with both batters firing on all cylinders. However, an inspired bowling change gave the Capitals a route back into the contest as Gulbadin Naib outfoxed Mayers. Having been hit for a massive six in the previous ball, Naib recovered well to bamboozle Mayers with a slower delivery as the West Indian missed out on a 50 after falling for a brilliant 42 off 29.

Joe Clarke joined Gous, who was on 55, and the American turned it up a notch. He struck back-to-back sixes off Ahmad - the first over long-on and the second straight over the bowler's head - as the Knight Riders amassed 122/1 in 13 overs and needed 96 runs off the final 42 deliveries.

Clarke launched an astonishing 91m six over long-on and retired hurt soon after to be replaced by the big-hitting Andre Russell. However, the momentum swung in the Capitals’ way as the Knight Riders suddenly had two new batsmen at the crease after a stellar 17th over from Dushmantha Chameera. Gous was the first to depart as he looked for a maximum but was caught out at mid-wicket for a 78 off 47. The Knight Riders’ strategy of retiring Clarke to bring on Russell didn’t pay off as the West Indian got out on his first ball.

The Capitals had more reasons to celebrate as David Willey fell after making just one run and the Knight Riders were stranded at 153/5, needing 65 runs in 18 balls. It proved to be too big a target to chase as the Dubai Capitals closed out a commanding 26-run win. This was the first time in seven matches that the team batting first had won the match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Batting first, the Dubai Capitals made a strong start as both their openers -- Shai Hope and Warner -- looked in fine touch. The duo took turns to find the boundaries as the Capitals raced to 43/0 inside the powerplay, despite Willey’s stunning spell in which he gave away just 11 runs in three overs.

The Knight Riders nearly had their breakthrough in the seventh over when Warner holed out, but Russell couldn’t hold on to the catch. Warner capitalized on the reprieve as he smashed Gudakesh Motie for four boundaries in the next over to get going. Hope followed that up with two sixes before Roston Chase bowled him to snap the 82-run opening wicket stand.

Warner went on to raise his half-century in 33 deliveries and achieved a milestone in the process as this was his career’s 116th 50+ score in T20s, the most by any batter in the world. The swashbuckling Australian went after the opposition bowlers, hitting Sunil Narine for a massive six, as the Capitals had 111 runs on the board after 12 overs. With a healthy 9+ run rate, they were on track to put up a 200+ total.

Naib kept the scorers busy as he fired a couple of big hits to race to 27 runs off 15 deliveries. The Knight Riders’ fielding was sub-par as Alishan Sharafu dropped Naib in the 15th over and the Afghan star went on to dispatch two massive sixes off Jason Holder to steer his side closer to a mammoth total.

Narine came back into the attack and struck right away as Naib was dismissed for a superb 25-ball 47. Rovman Powell survived just two deliveries and made way for Dasun Shanaka, who further accelerated the Capitals’ scoring. The Sri Lankan played a tremendous cameo as he sped away to 17 off just seven balls and then took Holder apart in the final over to power the Capitals to a massive total of 217/4. Warner remained unbeaten on 93 as the Capitals put up the highest total in Dubai in the tournament’s history.

Sunil Narine, captain of the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, said: Sunil: “It was decent (the season). I think we still gave it all we could give. It’s not the result we wanted but someone had to win and someone had to lose. In a must-win game, you don't want to chase 217. We had a decent start and tried to take it deep but we didn't finish as we wanted to. They bowled brilliantly and that was the key factor.”

Player of the match, David Warner said: (The innings) took me back to when I was 21 again. You need to have that positive attitude. Shai made my job easier. We got off to a positive start and put up a competitive total. I tried to hit straight. I am still learning. I love this game. I owe this game a lot. Hopefully, I can get one better next game.”

Brief scores:

Dubai Capitals beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 26 runs

Dubai Capitals 217/4 in 20 overs (David Warner 93 not out, Gulbadin Naib 47, Shai Hope 36, Dasun Shanaka 34 not out, Sunil Narine 1 for 34)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 191/5 in 20 overs (Andries Gous 78, Kyle Mayers 42, Joe Clarke retired hurt for 29, Dushmantha Chameera 2 for 25, Gulbadin Naib 1 for 32)

Player of the Match: David Warner
 
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