Aayal QureshiSharjah, UAE – The Gulf Giants, defending champions of the DP World ILT20, started their season with a commanding 31-run victory over the Sharjah Warriors in a thrilling opening match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The Giants posted an impressive total of 198 for 7 in 20 overs, anchored by a dynamic opening partnership between skipper James Vince (45 runs) and Jamie Smith (42 runs).
Off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana played a pivotal role for the Gulf Giants, taking 4 wickets for 15 runs with his carrom ball deliveries and accurate off-cutters. Despite the Giants’ strong batting display, Theekshana and Chris Woakes managed to curtail their innings, preventing a potentially higher score.
In response, the Sharjah Warriors had a solid start with an opening partnership of 93 runs in 10.3 overs between Martin Guptill and Johnson Charles. However, the Giants’ bowlers, particularly Jamie Overton (3 for 29) and Chris Jordan (2 for 35), turned the tide in the 17th over, restricting the Warriors to 167 for 7 in 20 overs.
Jamie Overton, who provided the crucial breakthroughs for the Giants, was awarded the Player of the Match. Giants’ skipper James Vince praised the all-rounded performance of his team, expressing confidence for the matches ahead. On the other hand, Warriors’ captain Tom Kohler-Cadmore acknowledged falling short by 20 runs and highlighted the areas for improvement in their next outing.
The Gulf Giants showcased their champion-like qualities, living up to their reputation and securing a convincing victory in the tournament opener.
