Abu Dhabi Knight Riders claimed their second win of ILT20 Season 3 with a convincing 37-run victory over Gulf Giants at the Dubai International Stadium. Michael Pepper’s match-winning half-century and an all-round bowling display overshadowed Aayan Afzal Khan’s record-breaking 4/16 for the Giants.
Player of the Match Pepper highlighted the significance of the win, saying, “It was quite an important game. Both teams being one from three, getting two from four, moving up the table early on is very important. So it was good to get the win today.”
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Pepper credited the team’s strong start for their competitive total of 176/9. “We knew it was going to be a tricky wicket the whole time. The quick start from the openers and Clark gave us the cushion to soak up pressure in the middle overs and go hard at the end,” he explained.
The Gulf Giants struggled in their chase, with their batting lineup faltering despite a spirited effort by Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer. Batting coach Grant Flower conceded, “They might have got probably 10-15 too many. At the end of the day, our top order’s got to take ownership. It was a good pitch, and we just weren’t good enough on the day.”
Flower also praised Aayan Khan’s outstanding spell. “Aayan’s been brilliant. His attitude and skill level have improved so much. On a good batting track, he bowled really good lengths and deserved everything he got.”
Despite the defeat, Flower expressed optimism about the team’s playoff chances. “The tournament’s not over. Our guys have quality but need better execution and batsmanship. Hopefully, we can turn the corner,” he remarked.
Pepper, reflecting on the league’s competitive spirit and crowd support, added, “It’s unbelievable… almost superstar after superstar in every lineup. It’s so good to be a part of it and have fun.”
