Qavalry beat Stallions by eight runs to secure playoff spot in Abu Dhabi T10

The race to the playoffs is intensifying at the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 as the tournament reaching its crucial halfway stage.

Fans have already been treated to a week of high-octane cricket, dramatic finishes, and standout performances that underline why this format continues to capture global attention.

Leading the charge with remarkable authority are the Quetta Qavalry, who have become the first team to officially book their place in the playoffs.

On Sunday, Qavalry defeated Aspin Stallions by eight runs.

Qavalry put up a competitive total of 100 for 7, built around a composed and impactful innings from Khawaja Nafay, who once again showcased his reliability under pressure.

The in-form batter remained unbeaten on 34 off just 17 deliveries, anchoring the innings with clean hitting and smart strike rotation.

His knock proved vital as wickets fell at regular intervals at the other end. English all-rounder Liam Livingstone added valuable momentum with a brisk 16 from eight balls, playing a typically aggressive cameo that helped Qavalry push past the 100-run mark.

Chasing 101, the Stallions made a promising start. They reached 28 for 1 by the fourth over, showing intent and early control in the powerplay.

However, their innings quickly unraveled as the Qavalry bowlers tightened their grip. The Stallions lost wickets at consistent intervals, preventing any meaningful partnerships from forming. Despite flashes of resistance, they struggled to regain momentum and ultimately fell short, finishing on 92 for 8.

Qavalry’s flawless five-match winning streak has not only showcased their depth and balance but also set a commanding tone for the rest of the competition.

With 10 points and a stunning Net Run Rate of 4.00, Qavalry have established themselves as the benchmark for consistency and excellence, building strong momentum as the tournament progresses.

While the Qavalry enjoy a comfortable lead, the battle behind them is far more complex. Vista Riders currently occupy second position with six points from four matches, though their negative NRR of –0.632 indicates a team that has been pushed in every game.

Meanwhile, four teams—UAE Bulls, Ajman Titans, Deccan Gladiators, and Northern Warriors—find themselves locked in a fierce contest for the remaining playoff spots. All four have accumulated four points each, separated only by marginal differences in Net Run Rate, making every run and every wicket even more valuable in the matches ahead.

The Stallions, though positioned lower with two points from four matches, remain mathematically alive in the competition. With a respectable NRR of –0.075, a strong comeback in the second half could see them re-enter the playoff conversation. At the bottom of the table, however, Royal Champs face the steepest uphill climb. Winless after four matches, they now require not just a complete turnaround in performance but also favorable results from other fixtures.

Despite the tight standings, it is the individual brilliance on display that has captivated fans worldwide. From powerful batting displays to disciplined bowling spells, the opening week has produced sensational moments.

At the top of the run-scoring chart sits Johnson Charles of the Northern Warriors, who has amassed 204 runs at a stunning average of 68. His consistency and attacking flair have been central to the Warriors’ campaign.

Close behind is the Deccan Gladiators’ explosive batter Tom Kohler-Cadmore, who has smashed 151 runs, including a dazzling 78 off just 29 balls—one of the standout innings of the season.

The Qavalry’s Nafay has also emerged as a revelation, scoring 144 runs in four innings without being dismissed yet, and clearing the ropes 12 times in the process. On the bowling front, Aspin Stallions’ Zohair Iqbal leads with nine wickets from four matches, showing both accuracy and control. Qavalry’s Khuzaima Tanveer has been equally impressive with seven wickets and an outstanding economy of 7.20, playing a vital role in his team’s unbeaten run.