Abu Dhabi T10: Delhi Bulls secure playoff spot despite narrow loss to Deccan Gladiators

Delhi Bulls clinched a place in the playoffs of the ongoing 2024 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament, despite a close 3-run defeat to Deccan Gladiators at Zayed Cricket Stadium on Saturday. The thrilling encounter saw both sides put up commendable performances, but Delhi’s strong standing in the table ensured their progression to the playoffs.

Opting to bat first, Deccan Gladiators got off to a fiery start with skipper Nicholas Pooran smashing 28 runs off 12 balls. However, Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqui and Pakistan bowler Salman Irshad turned the game around for Delhi Bulls, dismantling the Gladiators’ batting order and restricting them to 102/5 in 10 overs. Irshad’s key dismissals of Rilee Rossouw and Jos Buttler proved pivotal in keeping the total under control.

In response, Delhi’s openers Tom Banton and James Vince built a strong 51-run partnership for the first wicket. But after Banton’s dismissal for 29, the Bulls’ middle order collapsed under pressure from Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq and South African pacer Anrich Nortje, who took five wickets between them. Despite a valiant unbeaten 30 off 14 balls by Australia’s Tim David, Delhi fell short of the target. A brilliant final over by UAE pacer Zahoor Khan, who bounced back after conceding 16 runs in his first over, sealed the game for the Gladiators.

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Elsewhere, Ajman Bolts ended Morrisville Samp Army’s unbeaten streak with a three-wicket win, knocking the Bolts out of the tournament in the process. Samp Army, however, retained their top spot in the standings. Andries Gous’ unbeaten 43 off 27 balls helped Samp Army post a competitive 102/5 in 10 overs, with Afghanistan’s Qais Ahmad and Shrafuddin Ashraf taking crucial middle-order wickets for the Bolts.

Ajman’s chase was spearheaded by former England international Alex Hales, who blasted a 17-ball 50 to set the tone. Despite a late collapse, the Bolts managed to secure victory, though it wasn’t enough to keep their playoff hopes alive.