The Deccan Gladiators etched their name in history by claiming their third Abu Dhabi T10 championship title, defeating Morrisville Samp Army in a dominant final at the Zayed Cricket Stadium. Chasing a modest target of 105, the Gladiators put on a scintillating show, securing an 8-wicket victory with more than three overs to spare.
- Champions in 2021, 2022, and 2024
- Runners-up in 2023
The chase began explosively as England’s Tom Kohler-Cadmore took charge, smashing four consecutive boundaries in the first over bowled by Samp Army skipper Rohan Mustafa. He was well-supported by West Indies star and Gladiators captain Nicholas Pooran, who joined the fireworks. Pooran unleashed his power against Pakistan spinner Imad Wasim, collecting 20 runs in a single over and propelling the Gladiators past the 50-run mark.
Pooran’s innings came to an end at 28 off just 10 deliveries when he was caught brilliantly in the deep by Mustafa off Isuru Udana. However, Cadmore continued his rampage, notching up a quickfire fifty to guide his team home with ease.
Earlier, the Morrisville Samp Army had a rocky start, losing wickets at regular intervals and struggling to build momentum. South Africa’s Faf du Plessis top-scored with a steady 34 off 23 balls, while Andries Gous added 21 off 9 deliveries. A late surge by Afghanistan’s Karim Janat, who contributed 16 off 8 balls, helped Samp Army post 104/7 in their allotted 10 overs.
Deccan Gladiators’ bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with England pacer Richard Gleeson standing out with figures of 2/16 in his two overs.
The match day also featured notable off-field moments, including a speech by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, which captivated the crowd during the mid-innings break. Adding to the spectacle was an electrifying performance by actress Elnaaz Norouzi, adding glitz to the grand finale.