Abu Dhabi T10: Northern Warriors Secure Crucial Win as Playoff Race Intensifies

The Northern Warriors bolstered their chances of making the playoffs in the ongoing Abu Dhabi T10 2024 with a dominant nine-wicket victory over Ajman Bolts at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Friday. This win comes as the competition heats up in the eighth edition of the league.

The Warriors’ bowlers set the tone for the match, with Kiwi pacer Trent Boult and Afghan bowler Azmatullah Omarzai delivering stellar performances. Boult and Omarzai each picked up two wickets, conceding just seven and 10 runs, respectively. Their disciplined efforts restricted the Bolts to a modest 80/6 in 10 overs, giving the Warriors a straightforward target.

Despite an early setback with the dismissal of Colin Munro for 13, the Warriors chased down the target with ease. New Zealand’s Finn Allen led the charge, smashing 41 off 23 balls, while West Indies international Brandon King supported with 23 off 21 balls. Their unbeaten partnership ensured the Warriors crossed the finish line in just 7.4 overs.

In another thrilling encounter, the Chennai Brave Jaguars secured their first victory of the tournament, defeating the in-form UP Nawabs by 10 wickets. Batting first, the Nawabs posted a formidable 124/4, thanks to a fiery knock by captain Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 41 off 17 balls.

However, South African star Rassie van der Dussen stole the show in the chase, delivering a spectacular unbeaten 92 off 41 balls, including 7 sixes and 8 fours, at a strike rate of 224.39. Partnering with Josh Brown, who contributed 21 off 17 balls, van der Dussen guided Chennai to a memorable victory, completing the chase in 9.2 overs.