Ravichandran Ashwin-led Dublin Guardians finally opened their account in the European T20 Premier League, securing their first victory of the tournament with a convincing performance against Belfast Wolves at The Village in Dublin on Wednesday.
The Guardians produced a strong bowling display to restrict the Wolves to just 107 before chasing down the modest target inside 15 overs.
Captain Ashwin played an important role in putting Belfast under pressure. Although the experienced spinner went wicketless, he delivered a highly economical spell, conceding only 13 runs from his four overs. His tight bowling helped the Guardians control the scoring rate and created opportunities for the other bowlers to strike.
Craig Young was the standout performer with the ball, tearing through the Belfast batting order with a five-wicket haul. David Willey and Matthew Hollard provided strong support by taking two wickets each, while Joshua Little added another wicket as the Wolves struggled to build momentum.
With only 108 needed for victory, Dublin approached the chase confidently.
Willey made another valuable contribution, this time with the bat. Opening the innings, he scored 44 runs to give his team a strong platform and ensure the required rate remained comfortably under control.
Daryl Mitchell then completed the job with an unbeaten 35 from 25 deliveries. His composed knock helped Dublin cross the finish line with more than five overs remaining and secure a much-needed victory after a difficult start to the competition.
The win gives the Guardians something to build on after suffering defeats in each of their previous matches. Despite Wednesday’s result, Ashwin’s side remains fifth in the points table.
Dublin Guardians have now played six matches in the tournament, winning one and losing five.
While the result does not immediately transform their position in the standings, the comprehensive nature of the victory could provide a confidence boost. The combination of Young’s five-wicket haul, Ashwin’s economical spell and important contributions from Willey and Mitchell ensured the Guardians finally tasted success in the European T20 Premier League.
