In a series of inspiring events, Moises Henriques continued his red-hot form in the Portugal colours with a blistering performance against Czech Republic. The former Australian batter, playing third game for Portugal, tore into the bowling attack to score 111 runs off 55 balls in the T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C, bringing up his maiden T20I century of his career.
Moises Henriques smashes maiden T20I century
His blistering knock helped Portugal pile up 211/6 before rain disrupted the second innings. The Czech Republic were reeling at 24/5 after 8.5 overs when rain intervened, with Portugal eventually securing a massive 91-run win via the DLS method.
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Portugal skipper Henriques walked out to bat after opener Dhavalkumar Narottam got out on the very first ball of the first innings. The former Australia international took control of the innings and completed his century with the help of 12 fours and seven sixes. Christopher DeFreitas provided valuable contribution with 31 runs from 19 balls. Henriques and DeFreitas did most of the damage together, adding 107 from only 52 balls from the second wicket.
Henriques's tremendous form for Portugal
The 39-year-old has enjoyed an impressive start to his international career with Portugal. Henriques made his debut against Israel with an unbeaten 66, featuring four boundaries and four maximums. Interestingly, his top score while representing Australia was 62 against India in 2017. Henriques announced his retirement from Australian cricket on July 16, and only 36 days later, he went on to register his maiden T20I century while representing Portugal colours.
Portugal in final
Henriques's fine form with the bat has also helped Portugal secure their spit in the tournament final, where they will take on Spain on August 21. Portugal will face a stern challenge as Spain head into the title clash on the back of an incredible 24-game winning streak in international cricket. The winner of the tournament will advance to the European Regional Final, joining Scotland, Jersey and Denmark in the next stage of qualification.