Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Dubai, Dec 8 – In a thrilling opening match of ILT20 Season 4, Rovman Powell from the West Indies showcased his explosive batting with an unbeaten 96, leading Dubai Capitals to an overwhelming 83-run triumph over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
Although the Capitals had a rocky start with early dismissals of Toby Albert (8) and Sediqullah Atal (8), Powell and Jordan Cox, who contributed a solid 52 off 32 deliveries, formed a critical partnership. Together, they built a 119-run stand that shifted the game’s momentum, allowing Dubai Capitals to set an imposing total of 186/4 after the allotted 20 overs. Powell’s innings featured eight boundaries and four sixes, while Cox added four fours and a maximum of his own.
The Knight Riders faced immediate challenges as David Willey took down Alex Hales for a duck and Alishan Sharafu for just 4 runs in the first over. The pressure mounted when Mustafizur Rahman sent Unmukt Chand back to the pavilion, leaving the Riders at a dismal 10/3. Phil Salt’s brief resistance scoring 27 runs off 21 balls offered little hope as the team struggled to recover, ultimately being bowled out for 103 within 15.3 overs. Waqar Salamkheil and Mohammed Nabi were pivotal, sharing four vital wickets and keeping a tight grip on scoring.
Despite a quick 12 from Andre Russell off just six balls, the lower order of Knight Riders couldn’t mount a substantial reply. Skipper Jason Holder (0), Sunil Narine (3), and Sherfane Rutherford (19) all fell while trying to initiate a comeback, leaving the side far behind their target.
This resounding victory not only marked the Dubai Capitals’ first win of the season but also underscored Powell’s six-inning prowess, reflecting the team’s resilience in bouncing back from early challenges.
Brief Scores:
Dubai Capitals: 186/4 in 20 overs (Rovman Powell 96*, Jordan Cox 52; Jason Holder 2/30)
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 103 in 15.3 overs (Phil Salt 27; Waqar Salamkheil 4/29, David Willey 2/13, Mohammed Nabi 2/12)
English
