The Delhi Bulls secured their place in the playoffs of the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament despite a nail-biting 3-run loss to Deccan Gladiators at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Saturday. While the Bulls couldn’t chase down the target, their strong position in the standings ensured their progression to the next stage of the competition.
Batting first, Deccan Gladiators posted 102/5 in 10 overs, with captain Nicholas Pooran blazing 28 runs off just 12 deliveries. However, Delhi Bulls’ bowlers, particularly Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqui and Pakistan’s Salman Irshad, turned the tide. Irshad’s dismissals of Rilee Rossouw and Jos Buttler were critical in restricting the Gladiators to a modest total.
Chasing 103, Delhi Bulls had a promising start as openers Tom Banton and James Vince built a 51-run partnership. Banton’s 29 provided early momentum, but the Gladiators’ bowlers struck back. Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq and South African pacer Anrich Nortje shared five wickets, dismantling Delhi’s middle order. Tim David’s unbeaten 30 off 14 balls kept Delhi in contention, but a stellar final over by UAE’s Zahoor Khan, who recovered after an expensive first over, sealed the victory for the Gladiators.
In another match, Ajman Bolts snapped Morrisville Samp Army’s unbeaten streak with a thrilling three-wicket win. Despite their victory, the Bolts were knocked out of the tournament. Samp Army, led by Andries Gous’ unbeaten 43 off 27 balls, posted 102/5. Ajman’s chase was powered by Alex Hales, who smashed a blistering 17-ball 50. Although the Bolts suffered a late collapse, they managed to clinch the win, though it wasn’t enough to keep their playoff hopes alive.