By Anas Ahmed 
The Sharjah Warriorz have stormed into the ILT20 Season 3 playoffs with a commanding eight-wicket victory over MI Emirates. Led by an outstanding 91-run knock by Tom Kohler-Cadmore, the Warriorz chased down 173 in just 17.2 overs, marking their first-ever playoff qualification in tournament history.
This crucial win also knocks the Gulf Giants out of playoff contention, while the Dubai Capitals and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders battle for the final spot.
Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s Heroics Lead the Charge
Kohler-Cadmore delivered a batting masterclass, hammering 91 off 52 balls, including seven fours and five sixes. His aggressive intent and fearless stroke play ensured the Warriorz made light work of the chase.
Supporting him was Matthew Wade, who, playing his first match of the season, provided a crucial 44-run knock off 25 balls. Together, they put up a 102-run partnership in just 55 balls, dismantling the MI Emirates bowling attack.
The chase began with Jason Roy’s quickfire 22 before an unfortunate run-out ended his stay. However, Kohler-Cadmore kept the scoreboard ticking, reaching his half-century in 29 balls. Wade then took charge, smashing multiple sixes, including two off Alzarri Joseph, reducing the target to a mere 24 runs in 30 balls. The Warriorz comfortably sealed the victory with 16 balls to spare.
MI Emirates’ Strong Start Fizzles Out
Batting first, MI Emirates posted a competitive 173/5, thanks to Tom Banton’s unbeaten 84 off 51 balls. Despite losing both openers early, Banton and Kusal Perera built a 75-run stand, stabilizing the innings.
The duo played cautiously until they launched an attack on Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa, accelerating the run rate. However, Perera fell for 34 in the 15th over, and Nicholas Pooran’s early dismissal for just 8 runs dented their chances of crossing 180.
Tim Southee’s disciplined spell (1/22 in 4 overs) played a crucial role in restricting MI Emirates, setting the stage for the Warriorz’ remarkable chase.
Post-Match Reactions
🏆 Tom Kohler-Cadmore (Player of the Match):
“We’ve been waiting for this moment for three years! Tim Southee’s spell was crucial, and I just tried to put pressure back on the bowlers. Wade’s shots made it easier for us. We’ve had a strong team spirit all season.”
🎙️ Nicholas Pooran (MI Emirates Captain):
“We were 10-15 runs short and missed key fielding opportunities. Credit to Warriorz, they executed their chase brilliantly. We need to improve our execution in crucial moments.”
Road Ahead for Sharjah Warriorz
With this emphatic win, the Sharjah Warriorz have established themselves as serious contenders for the ILT20 title. Their strong top-order, led by Kohler-Cadmore and Wade, combined with a disciplined bowling attack, makes them a formidable side in the upcoming playoffs.
ILT20 Playoff Scenario
- Sharjah Warriorz qualify alongside Desert Vipers and MI Emirates
- Dubai Capitals & Abu Dhabi Knight Riders still in the hunt
- Gulf Giants knocked out
Key Stats & Highlights
✅ Tom Kohler-Cadmore – 91 (52) | 7x4s | 5x6s
✅ Matthew Wade – 44 (25) | 4x4s | 3x6s
✅ Tom Banton – 84* (51) | 4x4s | 4x6s
✅ Tim Southee – 4-0-22-1 (Economy 5.50)
Brief Scores
Sharjah Warriorz beat MI Emirates by eight wickets
MI Emirates 173/5 in 20 overs (Tom Banton 84 not out, Kusal Perera 31, Muhammad Waseem 21, Tim Southee 1 for 22, Dilshan Madushanka 1 for 33, Adam Milne 1 for 40)
Sharjah Warriorz 176/2 in 17.2 overs (Tom Kohler-Cadmore 91 not out, Matthew Wade 44 not out, Jason Roy 22, Fazalhaq Farooqi 1 for 22)
Player of the Match: Tom Kohler-Cadmore
Get Ready for the Playoffs!
The ILT20 playoffs are just around the corner! Can Sharjah Warriorz continue their dream run? Stay tuned for all the action!
Zainab Shafiq