In a commanding display of cricket, the Dubai Capitals secured their maiden victory against the Sharjah Warriorz in the International League T20 (ILT20) on Friday. The Capitals posted a formidable total before their bowlers dismantled the Warriorz batting line-up, clinching a comprehensive 63-run win at the Dubai International Stadium.
Atal and Nabi Power Capitals to Strong Total
Electing to bat first, the Dubai Capitals faced an early setback with the dismissal of Shayan Jahangir. However, Jordan Cox provided quick momentum with a brisk 28 off 19 balls. The innings was then anchored by the composed Sediqullah Atal, who scored a crucial 66 runs from 44 deliveries. Atal batted with patience, building a solid platform for the middle order.
The final flourish was provided by the experienced Afghan all-rounder, Mohammad Nabi. He unleashed a blistering assault on the Sharjah bowlers, smashing an unbeaten 38 off just 19 balls, which included three fours and three sixes. His late fireworks propelled the Capitals to a challenging total of 180 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 20 overs. For the Warriorz, Taskin Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets.
Disciplined Bowling Seals Dominant Victory
In response, the Sharjah Warriorz chase never gained momentum. The Capitals' bowlers struck early and often. Mustafizur Rahman and Haider Ali removed the top order cheaply, reducing the Warriorz to 45 for 3 inside the powerplay. A brief partnership between Sikandar Raza and James Rew offered some hope, but the required run rate kept climbing.
The spin duo of Mohammad Nabi and Waqar Salamkheil then ran through the lower and middle order. Nabi, continuing his excellent match, took 3 wickets for just 23 runs in his four overs. Salamkheil was equally impressive, matching Nabi's haul with figures of 3 for 22. The Sharjah innings collapsed and they were bowled out for 117 in the 17th over. James Rew's 47 was the only notable resistance in a subdued batting performance.
Playoff Race Intensifies After Result
This victory has significant implications for the ILT20 points table. The Dubai Capitals climbed to second place with six points, joining a cluster of four teams on the same tally. The Desert Vipers continue to lead the standings with 12 points. For the Sharjah Warriorz, this loss is a setback, leaving them near the bottom with just four points.
Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Mohammad Nabi credited the team's effort. "The top order set a great platform. I practice my power-hitting for this role. Atal batted brilliantly after waiting on the bench, and Salamkheil is a consistent wicket-taker," he said.
Sharjah Warriorz captain Sikandar Raza acknowledged the shortcomings. "We didn't field well and bowled well only in patches. The score was chasable but we needed partnerships. This is a setback, and we must peak now to stay in the competition," Raza stated, looking ahead to their next challenge against the table-topping Desert Vipers.
Brief Scores: Dubai Capitals 180/6 in 20 overs (Sediqullah Atal 66, Mohammad Nabi 38*, Jordan Cox 28; Taskin Ahmed 3/40) beat Sharjah Warriorz 117 all out in 17 overs (James Rew 47; Mohammad Nabi 3/23, Waqar Salamkheil 3/22, Haider Ali 2/19) by 63 runs.
