In a thrilling encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the Gulf Giants clinched a narrow two-wicket victory against MI Emirates in Season 3 of the ILT20 on Saturday. The win marked a crucial moment for the Giants, pushing them to fifth on the points table after a string of challenging matches.
Gulf Giants fast bowler Tom Curran, reflecting on the tense finish, expressed relief at the result. “Yes, absolutely. Nice to get over the line,” he said. “We needed to start winning some games, so yeah, absolutely glad we got over the line there.”
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Curran praised the team’s bowling performance, noting their success in restricting MI Emirates. “I thought we bowled well. We kept them to probably a par or under-par score. It’s a quick-scoring ground, and the wicket was good, so we were happy with how we bowled,” he explained. However, he admitted the batting got a bit too close for comfort. “Started well with the bat as well, but yeah, probably got a bit closer than we would have liked there at the end. Really pleased to get over the line.”
On his own contribution, Curran said he was satisfied with his performance. “Yeah, pleased. Happy with that. Take that for sure. First game, straight off the plane,” he remarked.
Discussing the ILT20 experience, Curran highlighted the tournament’s unique appeal. “No, I’ve loved it. It’s a great tournament to be a part of. Always great to play cricket here in the UAE. Amazing grounds and less travel. Although we’ve got to go back to Dubai tonight with a game tomorrow,” he added with a smile.
Looking ahead, Curran spoke about the upcoming match against his brother, Sam Curran. “No, it won’t just be another game, for sure. I haven’t played against him too much, so it’ll be one we’re looking forward to,” he said.
Meanwhile, MI Emirates fast bowler Rohid Khan reflected on his team’s effort, saying, “After that, we went according to the plan that was given to us. The team made an effort, but I think we could have reduced the score a bit more.”
Khan’s standout performance with the ball, taking 2 for 15 in four overs, was a bright spot for MI Emirates. “Absolutely, the atmosphere in our dressing room is such that there’s no pressure. Even though it was the first match, it didn’t feel like it,” he said.
As for the ILT20 experience, Khan emphasised the value of learning from senior players. “You get so much to learn. Sitting with today’s big players and applying those lessons on the ground is invaluable,” he remarked.
Both teams now turn their focus to their next matches, with the Gulf Giants eyeing a winning streak to secure their place in the playoffs.
