Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai, Dec 8 – In an electrifying performance, Rovman Powell of the West Indies scored an unbeaten 96, propelling Dubai Capitals to an impressive 83-run victory against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the opening match of ILT20 Season 4.

After a turbulent start, where openers Toby Albert (8) and Sediqullah Atal (8) quickly departed, Powell joined forces with Jordan Cox, who added 52 off 32 balls, to restore stability. Their partnership of 119 runs shifted the game’s trajectory, allowing Dubai Capitals to set a challenging total of 186/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Powell knocked eight fours and four sixes, while Cox contributed with four boundaries and a six.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders faced difficulties right from the beginning. David Willey claimed Alex Hales for a duck and also dismissed Alishan Sharafu for just 4 runs in the first over, while Mustafizur Rahman knocked over Unmukt Chand to leave the team in dire straits at 10/3. Although Phil Salt chipped in with 27 runs off 21 deliveries, the Knights could not recover, ultimately collapsing for just 103 runs in 15.3 overs. Waqar Salamkheil and Mohammed Nabi played pivotal roles, respectively grabbing four wickets and effectively managing the scoring rate.

Despite a quick 12 off six balls from Andre Russell, the middle and lower order of the Knight Riders struggled. Skipper Jason Holder (0), Sunil Narine (3), and Sherfane Rutherford (19) failed to spark a comeback, leaving their side far behind the target.

The emphatic win not only marked Dubai Capitals’ first victory of the season but also showcased Powell’s match-winning talent and the team's resilience in overcoming 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)

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