Fernando Powers Sharjah Warriorz to Thrilling Victory Over Dubai Capitals

Sharjah, UAE – Avishka Fernando delivered a spectacular display of power-hitting to steer the Sharjah Warriorz to a thrilling five-wicket win over the Dubai Capitals in the DP World International League T20 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Fernando etched his name into the record books by smashing the fastest half-century in tournament history, reaching the milestone in just 16 balls. His blistering 81 off 27 balls, studded with eight sixes and six fours, led the Warriorz in their successful chase of a daunting 202-run target, achieved in just 18.1 overs.

“I wanted to play my natural game, and I thank God for how things turned out,” said Fernando. “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.”

The Dubai Capitals had earlier posted a formidable total of 201/5, propelled by Shai Hope’s commanding 83 off 49 balls. Despite the strong start, the Capitals’ bowlers struggled to contain the Warriorz under the dew-laden conditions. Gulbadin Naib’s costly over, conceding 27 runs, proved pivotal in shifting momentum.

Captain Sikandar Raza acknowledged the challenging conditions and commended Fernando’s performance. “I thought it was a very good total. You don’t usually see 202 in Sharjah, so I was confident we had a winning score. The wicket got better later, and the dew made it tougher. Our fielding could have been better, and Avishka played brilliantly.”

The Warriorz also received solid contributions from Johnson Charles (37 off 19) and Jason Roy (26 off 21), who provided a strong platform at the top. Luke Wells ensured the chase was completed with a composed 31 not out from 17 balls.

The win underlined the Warriorz’s explosive batting prowess and set the tone for an exciting season ahead in the DP World ILT20.