The Deccan Gladiators showcased their dominance in the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10 League final, defeating Morrisville Samp Army by eight wickets at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium. This emphatic victory secured their third championship title, further cementing their legacy in the league.
Chasing a target of 105 in 10 overs, the Gladiators finished the job in just 6.4 overs, thanks to a blistering partnership between Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Nicholas Pooran.
Samp Army Struggle to Build Momentum
Opting to bat first, the Samp Army faced early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. Faf du Plessis (34 off 23) anchored the innings, while Andries Gous (21 off 9) and Karim Janat (16 off 8) provided brief fireworks. However, the team could only manage 104/7 in their 10 overs.
England pacer Richard Gleeson was the standout bowler for the Gladiators, delivering figures of 2/16 to keep the Samp Army in check. Zahoor Khan and Mohammad Hasnain also chipped in with key wickets.
Kohler-Cadmore and Pooran Shine in Chase
The Gladiators’ chase began with a bang, as Tom Kohler-Cadmore dismantled Samp Army skipper Rohan Mustafa in the opening over, smashing four consecutive boundaries. Captain Nicholas Pooran joined the assault in the third over, hammering Pakistan spinner Imad Wasim for 20 runs.
The pair raced past the 50-run mark within three overs, leaving Samp Army with little hope. Pooran’s quickfire 28 off 10 balls ended with a spectacular catch by Mustafa off Isuru Udana, but Kohler-Cadmore continued his dominance. He remained unbeaten with a half-century, steering the Gladiators to an easy win with 20 balls to spare.
Deccan Gladiators Cement Their Legacy in Abu Dhabi T10
The win adds another feather to the Deccan Gladiators’ cap, making them the most successful franchise in the Abu Dhabi T10 League with three titles. The electrifying final also featured a memorable speech by Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan and a lively performance by actress Elnaaz Norouzi, enhancing the fan experience.
