Azam Khan smashed the fastest half-century in DP World ILT20 history, powering the Desert Vipers to a convincing six-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants in Match 19 of Season 2. Khan’s blistering 50 off just 18 balls, laced with four sixes and five boundaries, propelled the Vipers to chase down a target of 161 with 19 balls to spare.
Khan’s Heroics Seal the Win:
Chasing a modest total, the Vipers lost early wickets but Azam Khan took control, dominating the bowling attack. He partnered with skipper Colin Munro (51 off 36) for a match-winning 80-run stand, ensuring the Vipers secured their third win in the tournament and climbed to third in the points table.
Gulf Giants Struggle Despite Decent Start:
Earlier, the Giants posted a below-par 160/7 batting first. Chris Lynn (31) and Shimron Hetmyer (40*) were the top scorers, but Mohammad Amir’s brilliant spell of 3/34 restricted their progress.
Post Match Key Quotes:
- Azam Khan (Player of the Match): “I enjoyed the knock and knew I could win the match. Strike rate matters and each win boosts our confidence.”
- Shimron Hetmyer (Gulf Giants): “It was a defendable total, but we missed early wickets. We can still qualify and will take it one match at a time.”
This win was a significant one for the Vipers, showcasing their batting prowess and putting them in a strong position for the playoffs. The Giants, on the other hand, need to regroup quickly and find their winning ways to stay in contention.
Brief scores:
Gulf Giants 160 for 7 in 20 overs (Chris Lynn 31, Jordan Cox 26, Shimron Hetmyer 40n.o, Mohammad Amir 3 for 34, Wanindu Hasaranga 2 for 15, Matheesha Pathirana 2 for 38) Desert Vipers 161 for 4 in 16.5 overs (Alex Hales 44, Colin Munro 51, Azam Khan 50n.o, Zuhaib Zubair 2 for 49)
Desert Vipers beat the Gulf Giants by 6 wickets.
Player of the Match: Azam Khan
