New York Strikers’ players celebrate after their victory against Deccan Gladiators in the final of Abu Dhabi T10.

After restricting Gladiators to 91/5, Strikers achieved the target for the loss of three wickets with four balls to spare. Strikers got off to a stuttering start as they lost first three wickets for 38 runs only. Gladiators had started fancying their chances of another title before Asif Ali took the onus to lead the Strikers fightback.

He belted whirlwind 48 off 25 balls with the help of four sixes and two boundaries and shared an unbeaten partnership of 59 runs for the fourth wicket with Kieron Pollard to take his take over the line. Pollard also scored an unbeaten 22.

Earlier, Gladiators got off to a decent start as the openers added 28 runs for the wicket to set the tone for a big score. They lost quite a few wickets in quick succession, which pushed them on the back foot.

Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister for Tolerance and Coexistence and the Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board graced the final of the Abu Dhabi T10 between Deccan Gladiators and New York Strikers on Saturday.

Sheikh Nahayan spoke before the start of the match and congratulated the tournament organisers on a successful edition in Abu Dhabi.

“We have seen great talents this year in Abu Dhabi T10 who have reminded us of the joy and demands of competition and brought us all closer together in the spirit of enjoyment and celebration. Cricket is an international sport that is quite at home in the global community of the UAE. With the support of leaders and people of our country, we at Emirates Cricket Board, are proud to bring this tournament to cricket fans everywhere,” he said.

“The sport of cricket encourages important values that are essential for us in the United Emirates. Cricket demands dedication, patience, collaboration, balance, alertness, concentration, technique, judgment, discipline, daring, civility and teamwork. In the light of the Leadership of the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we at Emirates Cricket Board, embrace all the values and principles. I stand in gratitude to all who have enabled the smooth running of the competition. We thank the sponsors, team members, umpires, referees, and commentators for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to making Abu Dhabi T10 a great success. I wish you all continued enjoyment. Please, enjoy the match. Good luck to everybody,” he added.