In a crucial clash of International League T20 2024 match 16 set for January 31, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ABD) will face off against the Gulf Giants (GUL) in a bid to climb the points ladder. With 2 wins from 5 matches, the Knight Riders find themselves level with the Giants, having played one game more than them. Knight Riders secured victories against the Desert Vipers but faced defeats at the hands of MI Emirates and the Dubai Capitals.
Despite posting a formidable 183 against the Capitals, Knight Riders’ bowling faltered, leading to an early finish to the chase. Meanwhile, the Giants started with a win against the Warriors but stumbled against the MI Emirates and the Desert Vipers before reclaiming momentum with a victory over the Dubai Capitals. Both teams are eager to secure a win and bolster their chances of advancing to the tournament’s later stages.
ABD vs GUL Match Details
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Pitch Report:
The pitch at the venue favours bowlers, catering to both spin and pace variations. Batters often struggle to gauge the slowing pace, adding to the challenge. Fortunately, the weather forecast promises an uninterrupted game. The wicket hasn’t been too friendly for batters, with only one match witnessing a total surpassing 375 runs.
ABD vs GUL Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | 1 |
| Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Won | 0 |
| Gulf Giants won | 1 |
| Match abandoned | 1 |
ABD vs GUL Predicted Playing XIs
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders:
Alishan Sharafu, Joe Clarke, Sam Hain, Imad Wasim, Michael-Kyle Pepper (WK), Andre Russell, Laurie Evans, Sunil Narine (C), David Willey, Matiullah Khan, Marchant de Lange.
Gulf Giants:
Jamie Smith (WK), James Vince (C), Jordan Cox, Shimron Hetmyer, Usman Khan, Carlos Brathwaite, Dominic Drakes, Chris Jordan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Zuhaib Zubair, Richard Gleeson.
ABD vs GUL Probable Best Performers
Probable Best Batter: Alishan Sharafu
Alishan Sharafu showcased a remarkable return to form, smashing an unbeaten 82 runs against the Desert Vipers, steering his team to victory. His aggressive batting turned the tide of the match, especially when the team was struggling at 60 for 3. Sharafu’s fifty came off just 34 balls, propelling the Knight Riders past the 100-run mark in 13.3 overs. The following day, he added a sturdy 37 runs against MI Emirates, further solidifying his performance.
Probable Best Bowler: Jamie Overton
After his remarkable three-wicket haul against Sharjah Warriors and a quickfire 41 off 18 balls against MI Emirates, Jamie Overton has been absent from the last two matches. Eager to regain his form, Overton will aim to make a strong comeback for the Knight Riders. With a desire to return to his usual impactful self, he will look forward to making a significant contribution in the upcoming match.
