Team Abu Dhabi players celebrate a wicket. — Supplied photo
A dynamic performance from Team Abu Dhabi captain Phil Salt provided an electrifying start to Season 8 of the Abu Dhabi T10 at Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Building on his impressive white-ball form, the right-handed batsman scored 52 runs off just 18 balls, leading his team to a remarkable nine-wicket victory over the new franchise, Ajman Bolts.
To commence the opening day of the new season, the players united to sing the National Anthem, and the match commenced following an energizing speech by Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of T Ten Global Sports. As the game unfolded, a fiery innings from young Sri Lankan batter Shevon Daniel initially put the hosts on the defensive. However, Mark Adair and Zeeshan Naseer challenged the opposition's top order with short deliveries, causing Ajman to lose wickets rapidly.
Ravi Bopara offered some relief for the Bolts, but speedster Kadeem Alleyne ended their resistance, securing two vital wickets. With momentum shifting, Bolts managed only 79 runs, finishing with a total of 79/8 in 10 overs. In pursuit of 80 runs, the hosts faced an early setback when Paul Stirling was caught out on the first ball. England's explosive hitters Jonny Bairstow and Salt then formed a partnership to steady the nerves. Salt took charge, hitting six sixes and two fours in his innings to reach a quick 17-ball fifty. Bairstow sealed the victory with 22 runs off 14 balls, playing a crucial supporting role as Team Abu Dhabi began the season with a bang.
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