By Anas Ahmed 
A breathtaking late assault by Dasun Shanaka powered the Dubai Capitals to a commanding five-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday evening. Shanaka’s unbeaten 34 off just 10 deliveries sealed the win with eight balls to spare, ensuring the Capitals stayed in contention for a top spot.
Gulf Giants Set Competitive Target
After being sent in to bat, Gulf Giants’ captain James Vince started aggressively, scoring 24 with four boundaries. However, the early dismissal of Ibrahim Zadran (3) by Obed McCoy and Vince’s fall just before the end of the powerplay put the Giants under pressure.
Jordan Cox and Gerhard Erasmus steadied the innings with a 69-run partnership, but tight bowling from the Capitals limited the scoring opportunities. Erasmus was dismissed for 29, and though Cox reached a well-deserved half-century (70), a run-out in the final over capped the Giants’ innings at 153/5.
Shimron Hetmyer, despite his reputation as a big hitter, managed only 17 not out as the Giants struggled to accelerate against a disciplined bowling attack.
Steady Start for Dubai Capitals
In their chase, the Dubai Capitals got off to a cautious start with openers Shai Hope and Ben Dunk. Dunk managed only 10 before falling to Aayan Khan, and Khalid Shah also contributed 10 before perishing while attempting a big hit.
Hope then found support in Gulbadin Naib, as the pair kept the scoreboard ticking with crucial boundaries. However, Naib’s dismissal for 17 and a quick exit for Najibullah Zadran (7) left the Capitals at a precarious stage.
Shanaka’s Fireworks Seal the Game
With the Capitals needing a big finish, Shai Hope (47) and captain Sikandar Raza (26) provided the stability, building a 33-run stand. When Hope fell to Blessing Muzarabani, the required rate climbed, but Dasun Shanaka unleashed a match-winning cameo.
Shanaka’s blistering knock included two sixes and a boundary off Muzarabani, followed by another six and four in the 19th over. His clean hitting under pressure sealed the win with eight balls to spare, leaving the Gulf Giants stunned.
Post-Match Reactions
Player of the Match – Shai Hope:
“I am just trying to grow and improve every time I step onto the field. It’s about adapting and finding ways to contribute to the team.”
Gulf Giants Captain – James Vince:
“Shanaka’s clean striking in the final overs was the difference. We felt 153 was a decent score, but he took it away from us.”
Brief Scores
Gulf Giants 153/5 in 20 overs (Jordan Cox – 70, Gerhard Erasmus – 29, Dushmantha Chameera – 1 for 31, Zahir Khan – 1 for 32)
Dubai Capitals 154/5 in 18.4 overs (Shai Hope -47, Dasun Shanaka – 34 not out, Sikandar Raza – 27 not out, Aayan Khan – 2 for 23, Muhammad Zuhaib – 1 for 22)
Player of the match: Shai Hope
Dubai Capitals beat Gulf Giants by 5 wickets
Zainab Shafiq