Sikandar Raza orchestrated an impressive chase for Dubai Capitals, sealing a last-ball six on Friday against Desert Vipers at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This crucial victory was essential for Dubai Capitals to remain in contention for the playoffs in ILT20 2024.
In the initial innings, Desert Vipers set a target of 171/7 in 20 overs, boosted by Alex Hales’ half-century (66). However, Capitals faced a challenging start, sliding to 32/3 in just 5.1 overs during the chase. Dubai Capitals’ captain, Sam Billings (57), and Sikandar Raza (60*), collaborated for a crucial 79-run partnership for the fourth wicket, mending their team’s fortunes. This partnership revived their chances in the contest.
Despite Matheesha Pathirana dismissing Billings in the 15th over, Sikandar Raza remained at the crease till the end, successfully completing the task for his team.
Facing the requirement of six runs on the final ball, Raza maintained his composure and executed a well-timed six. Choosing to slog it over the long-off fielder against a slower delivery, he elegantly finished the match with a maximum.
You can watch the video here:
Dubai Capitals stay alive by the skin of their teeth & they have Raza to thank 🙇🙌
6 needed on the last ball & the 🇿🇼 maestro deposits it over long off 🤯#DVvDC | #KoiKasarNahiChhodenge | #DPWorldILT20onZee pic.twitter.com/iygmkvjHCl
— Zee Cricket (@ilt20onzee) February 9, 2024
“I put in the effort and maintain my faith in it because outcomes are beyond my control”- Sikandar Raza
During the post-match presentation, Sikandar Raza was honoured with the Player of the Match award for his decisive innings. When discussing his performance, Raza remarked:
“I said to myself, I don’t think he’ll go short. I’ll hold my ground, and if he goes slow into the wicket I’ll take it on. Well Naseer will learn from this. We have all been under the pump as a bowler and that will teaches you valuable lessons. To bowl the 20th over at 19 years of age shows great character.”
He continued: “I’m sorry for him but we needed this win more! I would say Faith. Faith keeps me strong. I bowl hard in the nets, and bat for long periods and then take power-hitting as a separate drill. I do the hard work and keep my belief in it, because results are not in my control.”
In the ongoing ILT20 2024, Sikandar Raza holds the position of the second-highest run-scorer. He has accumulated 263 runs at an average of 37.57 in nine matches, establishing himself as the leading performer for the Capitals in batting.
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