In an exhilarating T20 encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders emerged victorious against Desert Vipers. Chasing a modest total of 165 set by Desert Vipers, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders eased past to victory in the 18th over on the back of Andries Gous’s unbeaten knock of 95.
Desert Vipers’ Struggle
Winning the toss, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders opted to field first, and the decision paid dividends as they restricted Desert Vipers to 164/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Desert Vipers faced a challenging start as the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ bowlers were quick to make inroads. Alex Hales fell to an off-cutter from David Willey while his partner Colin Munro, the Vipers’ skipper, fell early to a short ball from Josh Little. Dan Lawrence tried to steady the ship but couldn’t carry on for longer.
Despite some resistance, Desert Vipers found themselves in a precarious position at 78/3 during the strategic timeout. A fifty-run partnership between Adam Hose and Wanindu Hasaranga provided a glimmer of hope, but quick wickets fell again. Bas de Leede and Rohan Mustafa contributed valuable runs towards the end, guiding Desert Vipers to a total of 164/8. Ali Khan was the pick of the bowlers for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders picking 3 wickets while veteran spinner Sunil Narine picked two wickets keeping the Desert Vipers batsmen in check.
Andries Gous Leads the Charge for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Chasing a target of 165, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders began their innings aggressively. Alishan Sharafu, however, fell early to Sheldon Cottrell. The real star for the Knight Riders was Andries Gous, who played a splendid unbeaten innings, scoring 95 off 50 balls. His brilliant knock included eight boundaries and five towering sixes.
Gous found support in Michael Pepper, who contributed with a quickfire 36. An 85-run partnership in just 8 overs for the second wicket ensured the Knight Riders were well ahead of the game. However, Desert Vipers came back into the game with two quick wickets off Pepper and impact sub Sam Hain.
Gous didn’t let the momentum slip and carried on to score in his merry way treating both spin and pace in the same manner. Impact sub Tymal Mills bowled an economical spell but couldn’t get enough support from the other end. Despite the hiccups, a 71-run partnership between Laurie Evans and Gous took the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders just a shot away from the victory. Imad Wasim walked in and scored the winning runs for the Knight Riders to register the first win of their new campaign.
Knight Riders will face the MI Emirates in their next match on the 23rd while Desert Vipers will take on the Gulf Giants on the 24th of January. Dubai Capitals will lock horns with the Sharjah Warriors in today’s fixture.
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