Abu Dhabi T10: Tom Banton's explosive performance propels Delhi Bulls to Qualifier 2
Click to start listening
Abu Dhabi, Dec 2 (NationPress) England's Tom Banton was the highlight for the Delhi Bulls as the team advanced to Qualifier 2 in the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10, achieving back-to-back victories on Sunday at Zayed Cricket Stadium. The right-handed batsman delivered an astonishing performance, scoring 73 runs off just 26 balls against Team Abu Dhabi in the second Eliminator, hitting a staggering nine sixes throughout his innings.
With fireworks from skipper Rovman Powell, who contributed an unbeaten 20 runs in six balls, Delhi posted the season's highest score of 158/3 in 10 overs, creating a challenging chase for the opposition.
In reply, the required run rate proved too high for Abu Dhabi, who, despite having wickets in hand, found it difficult to score. The Delhi bowling lineup, including Pakistan internationals Fazalhaq Farooqi and Salman Irshad, maintained tight control over Jonny Bairstow, preventing the England star from finding his rhythm.
Despite an explosive contribution from South African domestic player Leus du Plooy, who scored 32 runs off 12 balls, Team Abu Dhabi was limited to 116, ultimately losing the match by 42 runs.
Earlier, the Bulls secured victory against UP Nawabs in the first Eliminator, extending their journey in the tournament, highlighted by another stellar innings from Banton and a superb bowling display. The bowling unit, led by UAE's Muhammad Rohid and Farooqi, restricted the Nawabs to 99/7 in 10 overs.
During the chase, opener Banton set the pace with an unbeaten 50 runs from 22 balls, leading his team to victory in just 7.1 overs. With an eight-wicket win, the Delhi Bulls eliminated UP Nawabs from the tournament.
