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  • Triple-wicket maiden: England pacer Saqib Mahmood achieves a unique feat in the 4th T20I against India

    Triple-wicket maiden: England pacer Saqib Mahmood achieves a unique feat in the 4th T20I against India

    England pacer Saqib Mahmood etched his name in the record books with a stunning triple wicket maiden during the fourth T20I against India at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Mahmood became the first English bowler to achieve this rare feat and the first from any team to do so against India in T20 Internationals.

    The dramatic over unfolded in the second over of India’s innings, making Mahmood only the second bowler in T20I history to achieve a triple wicket maiden so early in the innings. He now shares this record with Jerome Taylor, who accomplished the same against South Africa in Gqeberha in 2007.

    Triple-wicket maiden for Saqib Mahmood

    First ball: Sanju Samson falls again

    Mahmood struck immediately, dismissing Sanju Samson on the first delivery. A short ball angled into the body forced Samson into a mistimed pull shot, which sailed into the hands of Brydon Carse at deep square leg. Samson, struggling with form, recorded his fourth consecutive dismissal in similar fashion. (Samson c Brydon Carse b Saqib Mahmood 1 off 3)

    Also READ: Kevin Peterson criticizes India’s batting following their loss to England in the 3rd T20I at Rajkot

    Second ball: Tilak departs for a duck

    Tilak Varma, batting at No. 3, decided to take on Mahmood first ball but paid the price. Charging down the wicket, he attempted a big shot, only to edge the ball to third man where Jofra Archer completed a low catch. England erupted in celebration as Mahmood found himself on a hat-trick. (Tilak Varma c Jofra Archer b Saqib Mahmood 0 off 1)

    Final ball of the over: Suryakumar falls in Mahmood’s trap

    After defending three deliveries, Suryakumar Yadav aimed to break the shackles but ended up driving the ball straight to short mid-on, where Carse took his second catch of the over. The stunned Indian crowd fell silent as England celebrated Mahmood’s incredible milestone. (Suryakumar Yadav c Brydon Carse b Saqib Mahmood 0 off 4)

    Mahmood’s fiery spell left India reeling early, setting the stage for a dominant England performance. His historic feat will be remembered as one of the finest bowling displays in T20I history.

    Also READ: Changes in playing XI: Three in India and two in England during the 4th T20I

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  • IND vs ENG 2025: Parthiv Patel slams Hardik Pandya for taking too long to settle during Rajkot T20I

    IND vs ENG 2025: Parthiv Patel slams Hardik Pandya for taking too long to settle during Rajkot T20I

    In the third T20I of the five-match series between England and India, the host nation succumbed to a 26-run defeat. The match, played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, saw India falter in their chase of England’s total. Despite a valiant effort from Hardik Pandya, who top-scored for India, former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel criticized Pandya’s slow start and failure to rotate the strike effectively.

    Hardik Pandya’s knock and dismissal

    In the penultimate over of India’s chase, the pressure was mounting as the required run rate soared. With 41 runs needed from just 12 balls, Pandya attempted to accelerate the chase but was dismissed by Jamie Overton. The England pacer bowled a full delivery aimed at the stumps, and Pandya, looking to clear the long-off boundary, lost his shape while executing an aerial lofted shot. The ball found the safe hands of England’s captain, Jos Buttler, ending Pandya’s innings at 40 runs off 35 balls. His knock included one four and two sixes.

    Parthiv Patel criticizes Pandya’s approach

    former Indian batter Patel criticized Pandya’s slow start in the chase, stating that taking 20-25 balls to settle created unnecessary pressure on the other Indian batters. He emphasized that while it’s fine not to play big shots, it’s important to rotate the strike and avoid playing multiple dot balls in a row.

    “I thought when you are taking your time you want to get used to the pace and bounce of the pitch. But you cannot take 20-25 balls to get settled. So that put pressure on the other batters as well. If you don’t want to play those big shots, that’s okay, but you still have to keep on rotating the strike. You can’t play three or four dot balls in a row,” Parthiv told Star Sports.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: England outsmart India in 3rd T20I to keep the series alive

    The impact of dot balls: Patel calls for more rotation of strike

    Patel highlighted the importance of  Pandya rotating the strike effectively, even when not hitting big shots early. He pointed out that failing to find singles during a crucial chase adds pressure on other batters. The left-hand batter also noted that while Pandya might score 40 off 34 balls, the number of dot balls in his innings can create unnecessary pressure on teammates, suggesting that India should focus on maintaining good strike rotation.

    “And you might just see Hardik Pandya scoring 40 off 34 balls, but there are a number of dots in his innings that put pressure on the other batters as well. So, I think that’s something which India can think of. You take your time. Yes, it’s a low score, but you still have to keep rotating the strike as well with it,” the former opener concluded.

    Also WATCH: Varun Chakravarthy completes his five-wicket haul with double strike in an over | IND vs ENG, 3rd T20I

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  • IND vs ENG 2025: R. Ashwin lauds Adil Rashid for trapping Tilak Varma in his web of spin during 3rd T20I

    IND vs ENG 2025: R. Ashwin lauds Adil Rashid for trapping Tilak Varma in his web of spin during 3rd T20I

    No matter which side you are on, a lethal spin ball is equally appreciated by the cricketing world as a stunning swing delivery or a towering six. Adil Rashid’s stunner against Tilak Varma in Rajkot was one such delivery which took fans and analysts in shock. Amidst praises from everyone, the masterpiece is now appreciated by none other than Ravichandran Ashwin– the spin wizard.

    Ravichandran Ashwin amazed by Adil Rashid’s beauty

    Rashid bowled the sensational delivery on the last ball of the 8th over during India’s run chase of 172 runs. India’s promising young batter Tilak, was on the crease and appeared ready to play the big shot after steadily to an individual score of 18 runs off 13 balls.

    However, the 22-year-old could not lead India to another epic run chase as an outside off bowl took a breathtaking turn and cleared the middle-leg stump of the explosive Indian batter thus marking an end to his consecutive unbeatable run in previous 4 T20I matches. The dismissal proved detrimental to India’s hope of achieving the target.

    The empathic delivery was later on praised by Ashwin who called it an ‘absolute seed’ and further appreciated the scrambled seam and side spin approach from the English spinner. This was Rashid’s only dismissal of the match and came at a crucial time for his team as the run flow took a further hit with Tilak’s absence on the pitch.

    Also Read: Twitter reactions: England outsmart India in 3rd T20I to keep the series alive

    Here’s the post

    India stopped by a determined bowling effort from England

    Scoring runs was getting difficult for the Indian team in Rajkot as a disciplined bowling display from England groped the Indian batters and led them to commit mistakes on the pitch. No Indian batter could withstand the fine line and length bowled by English bowlers. Apart from Hardik Pandya who scored 40 runs off 35 balls, the entire Indian batting order succumbed and gave their wickets away cheaply. India’s run chase was wrapped up at 145/9 runs in 20 overs leading the way for an England victory by 26 runs in the match.

    Jamie Overton was the star of the match for England with the bowl as he took 3 wickets for 24 runs in his 4 overs. Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse supported Overton and took 2 wickets respectively to pave the way for an England win in the match.

    Also Read: Indian batting coach defends Suryakumar Yadav despite his struggles in ongoing T20I series against England



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  • Twitter reactions: England outsmart India in 3rd T20I to keep the series alive

    Twitter reactions: England outsmart India in 3rd T20I to keep the series alive

    England defeated India by 26 runs in the 3rd T20I at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot, to narrow the deficit in the five-match series to 2-1. Choosing to field first, India struggled to contain England’s power-hitters in form of Ben Duckett and Liam Livingstone, while their batting faltered under the pressure of a challenging target of 172. England’s bowlers, led by Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer, capitalized on India’s struggles to keep the series alive.

    England’s resilient batting sets the stage

    England posted a competitive 171/9 on the back of a crucial knock by Duckett (51 off 28), who displayed aggression and precision against India’s spinners. Supported by Livingstone’s fiery 43 off 24, the middle-order ensured England capitalized on the powerplay and middle overs. Jos Buttler (24 off 22) provided stability at the top but fell to a well-executed plan by Varun Chakravarthy, who was the pick of the bowlers with remarkable figures of 5/24.

    Chakravarthy’s guile dismantled England’s batting, picking wickets regularly and keeping their run rate in check. However, lower-order contributions from Adil Rashid and Mark Wood ensured England finished strongly despite losing wickets in clusters. India’s bowlers had a mixed day, with Ravi Bishnoi conceding 46 runs for one wicket and Hardik Pandya (2/33) offering occasional breakthroughs. Axar Patel (1/19) maintained control, but Washington Sundar and Mohammed Shami struggled, leaking runs under pressure.

    Also WATCH: Varun Chakravarthy completes his five-wicket haul with double strike in an over | IND vs ENG, 3rd T20I

    India’s batting collapse seals England’s victory

    Chasing 172, India’s innings never gained momentum, as regular wickets derailed their chase. The early loss of Sanju Samson (3) and Abhishek Sharma (24 off 14) in the powerplay added pressure. Suryakumar Yadav (14 off 7) looked promising with a quick cameo but fell to Mark Wood, while Tilak Varma (18 off 14) and Sundar (6 off 15) struggled to anchor the innings.

    Hardik (40 off 35) fought valiantly, but the lack of partnerships and rising required rate made the chase increasingly difficult. England’s bowlers, particularly Jamie Overton (3/23) and Jofra Archer (2/33), executed their plans to perfection, consistently striking at crucial junctures. Adil Rashid’s economical spell (1/15) applied pressure in the middle overs, leaving India with too much to do in the death overs. India’s tailenders offered little resistance as they ended at 146/9 in 20 overs. England’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured they stayed in contention for the series, setting up an intriguing battle in the final two games.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: Indian batting coach defends Suryakumar Yadav despite his struggles in ongoing T20I series against England



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  • IND vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Here’s how Gautam Gambhir’s guidance helped Tilak Verma in playing a match-winning knock

    IND vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Here’s how Gautam Gambhir’s guidance helped Tilak Verma in playing a match-winning knock

    India secured a nail-biting win in the second T20I against England on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The match, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, saw an exceptional performance by the 22-year-old batter Tilak Varma, whose heroic knock of 72 off 55 balls steered the team to victory.

    Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir played a crucial role in motivating Varma with key advice before the match.

    Tilak Verma shines with a match-winning knock against England

    In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, India emerged victorious by two wickets. Chasing a fighting total, the team displayed resilience on a pitch that was two-paced and tricky for batters. Varma’s scintillating innings, which included 4 fours and five towering sixes, stood out as the cornerstone of India’s chase. His composed performance under pressure earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.

    Varma, known for his flair and consistency, proved his mettle yet again. With wickets falling around him, Varma shouldered the responsibility and played a mature innings. His calculated aggression and ability to adapt to the situation highlighted his growing stature as a key player for India.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: Tilak Varma powers India to a 2-0 series lead over England in the T20Is

    Gautam Gambhir’s words of wisdom to Tilak Varma ahead of the match

    After his outstanding knock Varma credited Gambhir for shaping his approach to the game. Before the match, Gambhir advised him to adapt to the situation, emphasizing that if the team needed 10 runs per over, he should take charge, but to always bat sensibly. The 22-year-old acknowledged the importance of this guidance, especially with the wicket being two-paced and wickets falling quickly.

    “First of all, the wicket was slightly two-paced and wickets were falling one after the other, so actually I was talking with Gautam Gambhir Sir yesterday, and he said that whatever happens, played according to the situation. What the team needs, do that. If you want 10 runs in an over, take the charge. Bat sensibly is what he said,” Varma said about Gambhir’s words in the post-match presentation ceremony.

    Also READ: Ramandeep Singh, Shivam Dube added to India squad for remaining England T20Is

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  • IND vs ENG: Former England captain Michael Vaughan hails Varun Chakravarthy’s brilliant performance in the first T20I

    IND vs ENG: Former England captain Michael Vaughan hails Varun Chakravarthy’s brilliant performance in the first T20I

    In the opening match of the five-match T20I series between India and England at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the hosts triumphed with a commanding seven-wicket victory. India now leads the series 1-0, thanks to a scintillating performance by their ace spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, who dismantled the English batting lineup with his clever variations and pinpoint accuracy.

    Chakravarthy’s spell was the cornerstone of India’s success. The right-arm leg spinner bowled a remarkable four-over spell, claiming three crucial wickets while conceding just 23 runs. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award and widespread praise from cricketing pundits, including former England captain Michael Vaughan.

    Micheal Vaughan lauds Varun Chakravarthy’s brilliance

    Impressed by Chakravarthy’s brilliance, Vaughan praised Indian spinner Chakravarthy, highlighting his skillful and deceptive craft. The former England batter described the Tamil Nadu bowler as a “lovely mystery spinner” who brings the ball back into right-handers, occasionally holds one up, and consistently targets the stumps. While not a big turner of the ball, his subtle variations make him challenging to face. Vaughan emphasized Chakravarthy’s consistency and intelligence, urging England to adopt a different approach to counter him.

    “Chakravarthy is a lovely mystery spinner – kind of brings the ball back into the right-handers. Every now and again, he will just hold one up. He’s not a huge spinner of the ball, but just does enough, which makes it very difficult – always brings the stumps into play. He is very consistent and also very smart. England have got to find a different method of trying to put him under pressure,” Vaughan said in an interview with Cricbuzz.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: Abhishek Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy shine as India crush England by 7 wickets in the Kolkata T20I

    Vaughan praises Chakravarthy’s craftsmanship

    Vaughan further expressed his admiration for Chakravarthy’s bowling, highlighting his understated, old-fashioned celebration style of simply walking away after taking a wicket. “I love watching him bowl because when he gets a wicket, he doesn’t celebrate. He just kind of walks away in an old-fashioned kind of celebration, ” former England skipper added.

    Also READ:  IND vs ENG 2025: Arshdeep Singh shatters Yuzvendra Chahal’s bowling record in the first T20I

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  • Twitter reactions: Abhishek Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy shine as India crush England by 7 wickets in the Kolkata T20I

    Twitter reactions: Abhishek Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy shine as India crush England by 7 wickets in the Kolkata T20I

    In a dominant display at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India defeated England by 7 wickets with 43 balls to spare in the opening T20I of the five-match series. Opting to field first, India restricted England to a modest 132, thanks to a disciplined bowling performance led by Varun Chakravarthy and Arshdeep Singh. In reply, Abhishek Sharma’s blistering 79 off 34 balls ensured India chased down the target in just 12.5 overs. This emphatic win gives India an early lead in the series and highlights their all-round strength.

    Varun Chakravarthy’s magic with the ball

    India’s decision to field first paid dividends early as Arshdeep removed Phil Salt and Ben Duckett in quick succession. The highlight of the innings was Chakravarthy’s spellbinding bowling. He picked up 3 wickets for 23 runs, including the key scalps of Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone in the same over. Chakravarthy’s guile and precision left England’s middle order in shambles, as they struggled to accelerate after a steady start by Jos Buttler, who top-scored with 68 off 44 balls and eventually fell to Varun. England’s lower order offered little resistance, folding for a mere 132.

    Abhishek Sharma’s explosive knock against England

    India’s chase began on a steady note, but Abhishek turned it into a one-man show. Opening alongside Sanju Samson, Sharma smashed 79 runs off just 34 deliveries, including 5 fours and 8 towering sixes. His 20-ball half-century set the tone for a quick finish. While Samson contributed 26 at the top, and Tilak Varma ensured there were no hiccups with an unbeaten 19, it was Abhishek’s fearless approach against the England pacers, particularly Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, that defined the innings. His clean striking was a treat for the crowd, and he was rightly named Player of the Match.

    Also WATCH: Varun Chakravarthy stuns England by removing Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone in the same over | IND vs ENG 2025, 1st T20I

    Clinical bowling and fielding highlight India’s dominance in Kolkata

    India’s bowling unit executed their plans to perfection. Arshdeep’s early breakthroughs and Hardik Pandya’s crucial strikes in the middle overs ensured England never got the momentum they needed. Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi kept things tight, with Patel also picking up 2 wickets. The fielding effort, including a run-out by Samson to dismiss Mark Wood, complemented the bowlers’ efforts. Overall, India’s all-round performance showcased their readiness for the series, leaving England with much to ponder before the second T20I.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025: Arshdeep Singh shatters Yuzvendra Chahal’s bowling record in the first T20I



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  • IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Top 5 key battles to watch out for in Kolkata

    IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Top 5 key battles to watch out for in Kolkata

    England’s highly anticipated white-ball tour of India will kick off with a five-match T20I series, starting on January 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This series marks the beginning of a crucial limited-overs campaign for both teams, as they gear up for a challenging cricketing calendar ahead.

    England’s white-ball tour of India begins with T20I game at Eden Gardens

    The tour will be England’s first under their new white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, who has taken charge of the limited-overs side after revolutionizing their Test cricket. Captain Jos Buttler will lead a formidable English lineup, which includes explosive batters, versatile all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack featuring Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid. India, on the other hand, will aim to assert their dominance at home with a strong squad led by Suryakumar Yadav.

    The Indian side boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents, making them a formidable opponent on familiar turf. Eden Gardens, with its electrifying atmosphere and rich cricketing history, provides the perfect stage for the series opener. The teams will look to adapt quickly to the conditions, with dew expected to play a significant role in determining strategies during the evening game.

    Top 5 key battles to watch out for in the Kolkata T20I

    1. Ben Duckett vs Arshdeep Singh

    The clash between Ben Duckett and Arshdeep Singh promises to be intriguing, given Duckett’s aggressive approach against the left-arm pacer’s swing and accuracy. Duckett excels in countering spin but has shown vulnerability against quality pace, particularly in the powerplay.

    Arshdeep, known for his pinpoint yorkers and ability to swing the ball, will look to exploit any weakness early. The conditions at Eden Gardens, often favoring swing in the first few overs, could play into Arshdeep’s hands. Duckett, however, will aim to unsettle the bowler by stepping out or playing lofted shots. This face-off could set the tone for England’s innings if Arshdeep can dismiss Duckett early. Conversely, if Duckett manages to dominate, it could leave the Indian attack searching for answers.

    2. Mohammed Shami vs Jos Buttler

    A battle of experience and skill, Mohammed Shami’s disciplined seam bowling against Buttler’s explosive power is a key matchup. Buttler’s ability to take on any bowler in the powerplay will be tested by Shami’s lethal outswingers. Shami, who thrives on building pressure with consistent lines, will aim to dismiss Buttler early to disrupt England’s plans. Buttler, returning from a calf injury, has looked to play more as a pure batter and may attempt to counter Shami’s swing with aggressive intent. If Shami can get Buttler’s wicket, it would be a massive advantage for India. Nevertheless, if Buttler settles, he could make life tough for India with his wide range of strokes.

    Also READ: IND vs ENG: England unveils playing XI for the first T20I against India; Harry Brook named vice-captain

    3. Suryakumar Yadav vs Jofra Archer

    Suryakumar’s 360-degree batting against Archer’s raw pace and bounce promises fireworks. Archer’s comeback adds depth to England’s attack, and he will look to trouble Suryakumar with short-pitched deliveries and yorkers. Suryakumar, known for his ability to manipulate the field, thrives on pace and will aim to counter Archer with innovative shots like the scoop and ramp. The contest could be pivotal in the middle overs, with Suryakumar’s ability to accelerate potentially taking the game away from England. Archer, nonetheless, has the knack for delivering breakthroughs under pressure and will be England’s go-to bowler to neutralize India’s most dynamic batter.

    4. Hardik Pandya vs Adil Rashid

    Hardik Pandya’s power-hitting against Rashid’s crafty leg-spin will be a fascinating middle-overs contest. Rashid has often been England’s trump card, using his variations to stifle batters and pick up crucial wickets. Hardik, who relishes taking on spinners, will look to disrupt Rashid’s rhythm by stepping out and targeting the boundary. Rashid, however, could exploit Hardik’s occasional tendency to misjudge flighted deliveries. This matchup could determine whether India builds momentum or England regains control in the middle overs. If Rashid manages to dismiss Hardik early, it would provide England with a significant edge, but if Hardik succeeds, India could post a formidable total.

    5. Liam Livingstone vs Kuldeep Yadav

    Liam Livingstone’s brute force and Kuldeep Yadav’s guile with wrist-spin make for a thrilling encounter. Livingstone, known for his ability to hit sixes at will, will look to attack Kuldeep and disrupt his rhythm. Kuldeep, on the other hand, will aim to exploit Livingstone’s vulnerability against well-disguised googlies and variations in pace. This battle in the middle and death overs could dictate the flow of England’s innings. Kuldeep’s ability to induce false shots will be crucial, while Livingstone’s counterattacking approach could put pressure on the bowler. If Kuldeep manages to outfox Livingstone, it would be a game-changing moment for India, but if Livingstone dominates, England could gain a significant advantage.

    Also READ: Not Jos Buttler! England’s Brendon McCullum confirms different wicketkeeper for the India T20Is

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  • WATCH: Zahir Khan removes Pakistan’s Azam Khan with an absolute peach in the ILT20 2025

    WATCH: Zahir Khan removes Pakistan’s Azam Khan with an absolute peach in the ILT20 2025

    In Match 13 of the International League (IL)T20 2025 between Desert Vipers and Dubai Capitals on Monday (January 20), Zahir Khan produced a masterclass in wrist-spin bowling to dismiss Pakistan’s hard-hitting batter Azam Khan.

    Zahir Khan dismisses Pakistan’s Azam Khan with a stunning delivery

    On fifth ball of the 15th over, Zahir , known for his ability to extract sharp turn from the surface, bowled a delivery that was slightly shorter in length and pitched wide of the off stump, approximately on the seventh-stump line. The ball had a massive amount of turn and kept lower than expected. Azam, anticipating a slightly higher bounce, attempted to pull the ball toward the midwicket region. However, the sharp turn combined with the lack of bounce completely deceived the batter.

    As Azam swung through the line, the ball spun sharply inward, breaching his defenses and clipping the leg stump. It was a textbook example of how a wrist-spinner can use variations in turn and bounce to unsettle even the most aggressive batters.

    Azam had looked to inject momentum into the innings with his aggressive approach. Facing just seven balls, he had already smashed one six, indicating his intent to dominate the bowlers. However, Zahir’s tactical brilliance ensured that Azam’s stay at the crease was short-lived. The turn on the delivery was so exaggerated that even a batter of Azam’s caliber found himself completely outfoxed.

    Here’s the video:

    Also WATCH: Gerhard Erasmus and Ibrahim Zadran combine for stunning catch to dismiss Andre Russell in ILT20 2025

    Dubai Capitals’ playoff hopes alive with crucial win over Desert Vipers

    The Vipers posted a modest total of 139, with Alex Hales (34 off 31) and Sherfane Rutherford (27 off 24) making notable contributions. Zahir (3/34) and Dushmantha Chameera (3/26) led the Capitals’ bowling attack. Gulbadin Naib chipped in with a tight spell, taking 1/10 in 2 overs. The Capitals chased the target with ease, thanks to a match-winning knock from Gulbadin (78 not out off 51, 3 fours, 5 sixes). Despite early setbacks, Naib steadied the innings alongside Sikandar Raza (24 off 26) before Najibullah Zadran (10 not out off 10) ensured a comfortable finish.

    Also READ: ILT20 2025: Gulbadin Naib steers Dubai Capitals to an emphatic victory over Desert Vipers



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  • ILT20 2025: Avishka Fernando’s record-breaking performance powers Sharjah Warriorz to historic chase against Dubai Capitals

    ILT20 2025: Avishka Fernando’s record-breaking performance powers Sharjah Warriorz to historic chase against Dubai Capitals

    The 8th International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 match between Dubai Capitals and Sharjah Warriorz proved to be an epic contest, ending with the Warriorz chasing down the highest total in ILT20 history. The match, played at Sharjah, witnessed a historic run chase as Avishka Fernando‘s blistering knock guided the Warriorz to an incredible target of 202 runs, securing victory with 11 balls to spare.

    Dubai Capitals’ batting led by Shai Hope

    The Capitals, who won the toss and opted to bat first, posted a challenging total of 201/5 in their 20 overs. Shai Hope anchored the innings with an unbeaten 83 off 52 balls, laced with six towering sixes and three boundaries. Alongside Hope, Brandon McMullen (22 off 14), Sikandar Raza (27 off 20) and Rovman Powell (28 off 15) made valuable contributions, each playing their part in building a strong innings. The Warriorz bowlers, led by Tim Southee, displayed excellent discipline, with Southee returning figures of 2/35 in his four-over spell. Karim Janat also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, removing Hope at a vital stage, while Gulbadin Naib (6 off 3) added a late flourish. Despite the effort, The Capitals ended at 201/5, setting up a memorable chase.

    Historic run chase by Sharjah Warriorz

    In their reply, the Warriorz began with aggressive intent, and Avishka took charge from the start. The Sri Lankan batter was in a league of his own, smashing an astonishing 81 runs off just 27 deliveries, a knock that included six fours and eight massive sixes. Fernando’s ability to clear the boundary with such ease and his calculated aggression transformed the run chase into a one-sided affair early on. His innings culminated in the fastest fifty in ILT20 history, reaching his half-century off just 16 balls – a feat that left the crowd stunned and the opposition deflated.

    Johnson Charles provided the early stability with a quick-fire 37 off 19 balls, while Rohan Mustafa’s steady 17 runs off 16 deliveries helped keep the run-rate ticking. However, it was Fernando’s destructive batting that shifted the momentum entirely in favour of the Warriorz. The Capitals’ bowlers, including Dushmantha Chameera (3/30) and Olly Stone (1/50), tried to contain Fernando, but they had no answer to his onslaught. His fearless approach forced the Capitals to constantly adjust their line and length, with no success in curbing his free-flowing scoring.

    As the target approached, Luke Wells (31 not out off 17) provided the perfect finishing touch, hitting boundaries at crucial intervals to keep the required run rate in check. The Warriorz comfortably reached 202/5 in just 18 overs, claiming a historic win with 11 balls to spare, marking the highest successful chase in ILT20 history.

    Also WATCH: Waqar Salamkheil cleans up Alex Hales with a peach of a delivery in the ILT20 2025

    Avishka Fernando’s blistering knock rewrites records

    Avishka’s innings was nothing short of sensational, featuring 6 boundaries and 8 monstrous sixes, including the fastest fifty in ILT20 history- reaching his half-century off just 16 balls! His sheer dominance at the crease rewrote records and set a new benchmark for chases in this league. The previous record for the highest chase in ILT20 belonged to the Gulf Giants, who successfully chased 196 runs against Desert Vipers at Dubai in the 2023 edition.

    However, Fernando’s sensational knock shattered that record, showcasing his ability to clear the boundary with ease and maintain an aggressive tempo throughout his innings. Earlier in the 2024 edition, Pakistan’s Azam Khan had set the record for the fastest fifty in ILT20 history, taking just 18 balls to reach his fifty against the Giants. But Fernando’s calculated aggression and ability to accelerate at will took things to another level entirely.

    Also WATCH: Adam Milne’s destructive bowling shatters the stumps of Phil Salt and Kyle Mayers in ILT20 2025



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