The ongoing ILT20 season features many global star players, including various Pakistani cricketers participating in the UAE’s T20 league. Players like Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan are part of the ongoing edition. Meanwhile, the match between Sharjah Warriors and Desert Vipers on January 28 witnessed a moment of sportsmanship after Shadab Khan ran Martin Guptill out.
This happened in the 12th over of Sharjah Warriors’ innings. Shadab Khan bowled a middle and leg delivery to Joe Denly who pounced on it and smacked it hard. However, Martin Guptill inadvertently obstructed the ball’s path. He was unable to evade it and was struck, causing him to fall to the ground. The ball, having landed near the stumps, prompted Shadab Khan to dislodge the bail, which showed a lack of sportsmanship.
However, displaying a heartwarming gesture, the Vipers’ skipper, Colin Munro, chose to withdraw the appeal and allowed Martin Guptill to continue his innings. Guptill went on to score 11 more runs after the incident before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi. Nevertheless, Colin Munro’s moment of respect earned him praise from netizens.
Being a good sport goes above being good at the sport.
Hats off to the @TheDesertVipers skipper for playing a fair game 🫡🫡#DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket #DVvSW pic.twitter.com/IotodgnKs7
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 28, 2024
As far as the match is concerned, Sharjah went on to post 174 runs. Despite Alex Hales’ impressive 61-run innings, Desert could only manage to score 167 runs, falling short by 8 runs of the target. The victory propelled Warriors to the second position on the table, while Vipers found themselves at the bottom after the match. However, the Colin Munro-led side is scheduled to play 6 more games, and they certainly have a chance to make a comeback.
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On the other hand, MI Emirates is currently at the top of the table in the 6-team tournament, with Sharjah Warriors, Gulf Giants, Dubai Capitals, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, and Desert Vipers following in respective positions.