The Desert Vipers achieved a convincing six-wicket victory against the Sharjah Warriors in the DP World ILT20 season 2's 30th and concluding league match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on February 12 (Sunday). The game, delayed and shortened to 18 overs due to rain, saw the Vipers showcase their prowess both with the ball and bat.
Sowter, Pathirana shine for Desert Vipers
Nathan Sowter and Matheesha Pathirana led the Vipers' bowling attack with impressive figures of 3/21 and 3/28, respectively, while Sam Curran contributed with 2/29. Their collective effort successfully contained the Warriors to a score of 121/9 in their allotted overs. The Vipers then efficiently chased down the target in just 12.5 overs.
The opening duo of Phil Salt and Alex Hales initiated the chase with a swift 50-run partnership in 23 balls. This was followed by another significant partnership of 49 runs between captain Colin Munro and Dinesh Chandimal for the fourth wicket, propelling the Vipers towards the win.
Despite being out of contention for the playoffs, the Vipers' triumph allowed them to finish the season on a high note, pushing the Warriors to the last position on the table and securing the fifth spot for themselves.
Phil Salt's aggressive 12-ball 30, featuring four boundaries and two sixes, set the pace for the Vipers' chase. Although Dan Lawrence and Hales departed relatively early, Chandimal, alongside Munro, ensured a smooth sail to the target. Munro's run-out occurred just as the team needed seven more runs to clinch victory.
Bowlers set up Desert Vipers' victory
Earlier in the match, after electing to bowl first, the Vipers made early inroads into the Warriors' batting lineup. Sam Curran's precision removed Tom Kohler-Cadmore early on, while Daniel Lawrence's off-spin claimed Niroshan Dickwella. The Warriors struggled to build momentum, with Luke Wells and Martin Guptill managing a 28-run stand before Sowter's leg-spin outsmarted Guptill. Joe Denly and Sean Williams attempted to stabilize the innings, but consistent wicket-taking from the Vipers ensured the Warriors couldn't mount a significant total.
Wells was caught and bowled by Sowter after a commendable 31, and Williams, after adding some vital runs, was dismissed by Pathirana. The Warriors' innings concluded with Pathirana delivering the final blows, dismissing Mark Watt and Adil Rashid in consecutive deliveries.
This match not only marked the end of the league stage for both teams but also highlighted the Vipers' ability to deliver under pressure and conclude their season with a memorable win. Their performance against the Warriors demonstrated effective team coordination and individual brilliance, setting a positive tone for their future campaigns.
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