Dubai Capitals captain Sikandar Raza was delighted after they chased down 204 runs against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Sunday to register an eight-wicket win. ADKR posted a par score of 203 runs on the board after Raza decided to bowl first.
Charith Asalanka top-scored with 74 runs off just 38 balls whereas Kyle Mayers and Alishan Sharafu scored 35 and 36 runs respectively.
On the other hand, Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib continued his good form, scoring 80 runs off just 47 balls with the help of four fours and five sixes. The right-hander was 27 off 27 balls but changed gears to score 53 runs off the next 20 balls.
Furthermore, Shai Hope scored an unbeaten knock of 74 runs off 53 balls to help his team get over the line in the run-chase.
Sikandar Raza also provided an update on his hand injury. The Zimbabwean said in the post-match presentation, “I have got a scan. We will know tonight or tomorrow. My hand is quite sore. It was swelling. Just wanted to be on the safe side. Happy with the record chase. We did a lot of things on the field. The last five overs, the momentum shifted. Shai has been brilliant. The real shift in momentum happened in the last 4-5 overs. Chameera conceded 6 in the last 2 overs. He was expensive in the first 2 overs. But he picked his game up. Nice to pick up things at the right time.
Meanwhile, Gulbadin Naib was delighted to once again contribute to the team’s success after his blistering knock.
Naib said, “200 is never easy to chase. Just waiting for the right balls and loose balls. T20 cricket is all about entertainment. So, was waiting for my time. Every over we were talking to each other. I tried to seize the momentum. I saw they were worried and went for it. I am happy batting at any position from 1-10. As an athlete, you should be prepared for every situation. I dedicate this award to Ali Reza Asahi, a legendary bodybuilder from Afghanistan.”
Dubai Capitals will next take on Sharjah Warriorz at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday.
