GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The second edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) bowled off in thrilling fashion at the Guyana National Stadium here Thursday, with the Dubai Capitals securing a 22-run victory over New Zealand’s Central Stags in the tournament opener.
Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan delivered a match-winning all-round performance, guiding Dubai to a competitive 165-7 before dismantling the Stags’ chase with four crucial wickets, earning him the Player of the Match award.
After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, Dubai Capitals got off to a solid start thanks to opener Sediqullah Atal, who smashed 41 off 25 balls.
However, it was Shakib’s unbeaten 58 from 37 balls, featuring seven fours and the tournament’s first six, that propelled Dubai to a challenging total.
Stags’ spinner Angus Schaw was the standout bowler, claiming 3-29, including the key wickets of Niroshan Dickwella, Kadeem Alleyne, and Jordan Johnson.
In reply, the Central Stags struggled to build momentum, reaching 67-3 after 10 overs before the required rate climbed due to Dubai’s disciplined bowling.
Skipper Tom Bruce fought hard with 34 off 39 balls, but his dismissal in the 19th over left the Stags needing an improbable 29 off the final six deliveries.
Young Dubai pacer Khuzaima Tanveer nearly claimed a hat-trick in the last over, dismissing Doug Bracewell and Angus Schaw off consecutive balls before Ajaz Patel struck a boundary. However, the Stags could only muster 143-8, falling well short of the target.
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