By Anas Ahmed 
Tom Banton powered MI Emirates to a resounding nine-wicket victory over Sharjah Warriorz in the ongoing DP World ILT20 Season 3, smashing an unbeaten 102 off 55 balls. The match at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday saw Banton’s masterclass propel MI Emirates to chase down 177 in just 17.4 overs, marking a significant win that placed them second on the points table.
Banton’s Unstoppable Century
Banton’s scintillating innings featured 10 boundaries and six sixes, making him only the fourth centurion in ILT20 history and the second this season after Shai Hope. His milestone century was not only pivotal in securing a win but also made history as the first century scored at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the ILT20. Banton’s innings showcased his growing maturity and understanding of the game, turning the tide in MI Emirates’ favor.
Kusal Perera supported Banton with a solid unbeaten 56 off 42 balls, forming a formidable 157-run partnership. The duo’s dominance rendered the Sharjah Warriorz’ bowling attack ineffective after Muhammad Waseem was dismissed for 12 in the second over.
MI Emirates’ Bowling Prowess
Earlier, MI Emirates’ bowlers set the stage by restricting Sharjah Warriorz to 176/9. Fazalhaq Farooqi stood out with a four-wicket haul, conceding just 24 runs. His early dismissal of opener Jason Roy set the tone, while Alzarri Joseph chipped in with two wickets. Despite a blistering 39 off 17 balls by Avishka Fernando, the Warriorz struggled to maintain momentum after his departure, with Farooqi continuing to apply pressure throughout the innings.
Warriorz Struggle Despite Strong Start
Sharjah Warriorz had a promising start with a 50-run partnership between Johnson Charles and Avishka Fernando, but frequent wickets disrupted their innings. Johnson’s 59 off 42 balls was the only other significant contribution as Warriorz faltered against the disciplined MI Emirates bowling attack.
Key Highlights:
- Tom Banton scored an unbeaten 102, making him the standout performer.
- Kusal Perera supported with a composed 56 not out.
- Fazalhaq Farooqi’s 4/24 dismantled the Warriorz batting lineup.
Brief Scores
Sharjah Warriorz 176/9 in 20 overs (Johnson Charles 59, Avishka Fernando 39, Luke Wells 18, Karim Janat 18, Fazalhaq Farooqi 4 for 24, Alzarri Joseph 2 for 39)
MI Emirates 177/1 in 17.4 overs (Tom Banton 102 not out, Kusal Perera 56 not out, Dilshan Madushanka 1 for 36)
Player of the Match: Tom Banton
MI Emirates beat Sharjah Warriorz by nine wickets
Zainab Shafiq