Author: Gulf Times

Dubai, Avishka Fernando electrified the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with a blistering innings, leading the Warriorz to a record-breaking chase in ILT20 history. Chasing 202 against the Dubai Capitals, Fernando smashed an extraordinary 81 runs off just 27 balls, reaching his half-century in a record-breaking 16 balls—the fastest in the tournament’s history. Fernando’s innings, featuring eight massive sixes and six fours, ensured the Warriorz scaled the target in 18.1 overs with five wickets in hand. Earlier in the evening, Shai Hope played a pivotal role for the Capitals, compiling 83 runs to help his team post a challenging 201/5. Facing…

Sharjah, A brilliant counter-attacking innings by the Sri Lankan Avishka Fernando helped propel the Sharjah Warriorz to second spot on the points table, as they defeated the Dubai Capitals in Sharjah. The Sharjah Warriorz, who were playing their first home game this season, won by 5 wickets and 11 deliveries to spare. Speaking after the match, captain Tim Southee said, “To chase down a score like that and that innings from Fernando was incredible. To get off the plane in the morning and do that is special. Fernando was outstanding for us.” The captain further added, “There’s plenty of things…

LAHORE: Wapda’s Abubakar Talha lifted the boys U-18 singles title at the Millat Tractors Junior National Tennis Championship 2025 that concluded at Punjab Tennis Academy, Bagh-e-Jinnah, Lahore. Abubakar Talha, a student of FGEI, defeated M Salar in a thrilling final with a commanding scoreline of 6-3, 6-4. Abubakar, sponsored by SA Gardens and Euro Petroleum, showcased remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament. Following his title-winning performance, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to his supporters. “I am incredibly grateful to my sponsors, SA Gardens and Euro Petroleum, for their all-out support and belief in my abilities. This victory is…

Dubai Adani Sportsline-owned Gulf Giants announced its partnership with two cricket training centres — Swantons Cricket Academy and Smashing Point Sports Academy (SPSA)-Raise Your Game — in Dubai, UAE. This is the first time that Adani Sportsline has collaborated with cricket academies in the Middle East. Through this partnership, the Adani Sportsline aims to strengthen the Gulf Giants’ presence in the region by engaging with the players trained at the academies, their families, coaches, and other cricket enthusiasts. The collaboration will include exclusive branding and fan engagement activities, player visits, and will create opportunities for promising athletes to participate in…

Sharjah, The Sharjah Warriorz kicked off their ILT20 Season 3 campaign in style, overcoming the challenge of the Gulf Giants. Beyond the field, the Sharjah Warriorz are also establishing their reputation as trendsetters with their newly launched athleisure kit. At the heart of the new and unique collection, is the Warriorz spirit and the message of inclusivity across genders. The newly launched collection pairs the regal colours yellow and purple, which not only strengthens the visual representation for the team but also adds a differentiated recall value for the team – Tim Southee and Co; all the while ensuring athletes…

Sharjah, After beginning their ILT20 Season 3 campaign with a thrilling win, the Sharjah Warriorz fell short against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing a target of 160 on a tricky pitch, the Warriorz fell short by 30 runs. Against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, the New Zealand pace bowler Adam Milne had given the Sharjah Warriorz the ideal start, bagging a couple of wickets in his first spell, as he finished the match with figures of 2/37. The Kiwi pacer was asking plenty of questions off the ADKR batters. Reflecting on his…

Dubai, The DP World ILT20 offers a unique opportunity to be a part of the UAE’s first home-grown cricket tournament, and once again help turn Dubai into the sports capital of the region. DP World is proud to be the Title Partner of the region’s premier cricket tournament. To celebrate the partnership between DP World and the DP World ILT20, Shoaib Akhtar, commentator at the league and tournament ambassador, made an appearance at the DP World office in Dubai and spoke about his cricketing journey, the DP World ILT20 and the incredible partnership which continues to gain strength with every…

Dubai, Fakhar Zaman lit up the Dubai International Stadium with a stellar knock of 67 runs in 52 deliveries to secure a five-wicket victory for the Desert Vipers against the MI Emirates. Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales’ knock of 34 runs gave the Vipers a strong start in the run chase. Zaman and Sam Curran then erected a 65-run stand through the middle overs while Sherfane Rutherford powered his way to 21 runs in eight balls to chase the target of 160 in 19.1 overs. Electing to bat first, the MI Emirates had a promising start but could not…

Dubai Andrew Russell, the ILT20 Development Tournament Director, discussed the significant developmental impact of the DP World ILT20, aimed at nurturing young cricketing talent and raising the profile of the sport across the UAE. From offering children the rare opportunity to play soft ball cricket at iconic stadiums in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to the growth of development programs, Russell highlighted the success and future potential of cricket in the region. Among the various initiatives deployed by the DP World ILT20 Season 3 to create a comprehensive and engaging experience for all stakeholders is a daily pre-match activity that…

Dubai Abu Dhabi Knight Riders secured their first victory at the DP World ILT20 Season 3, defeating Sharjah Warriorz by 30 runs at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Jason Holder picked up four wickets for just 23 runs and David Willey returned figures of three wickets for 19 runs to defend their total of 159/5 with ease. Batting first, an unbroken partnership of 50 runs in the death overs between Andre Russell and Laurie Evans enabled the Knight Riders to post 159/5 after Kyle Mayers set the tone early with a rapid 21 runs. Evans remained unbeaten…