In the seventh Abu Dhabi T10, Kusal Perera’s brilliant batting performance helped the New York Strikers secure their first victory. With eight wickets remaining, the right-handed batsman hit a 20-ball fifty to help his team chase down a modest 102 total.
At Sheikh Zayed Stadium, on a cool Abu Dhabi night, the strikers chose to bowl, and they quickly removed the dangerous Chris Lynn. The runners-up from the previous season, however, were put on the back foot as a result of the outstanding partnership between Jordan Cox and Kusal Mendis.
After the fifth over, things started to pick up steam as left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir and Muhammad Jawadullah used economical spells to bring things back. The middle order of the Bangla Tigers was destroyed by Chamika Karunarante, who claimed three wickets.
Perera and Muhammad Waseem took the game away from the opposition with the bat, and the Strikers moved up in the win column after holding the Tigers to 101/7 in 10 overs.
Captain Kieron Pollard gave his teammates credit for the victory and complimented them on their performance. “I’d like to congratulate each and every guy. He stated, “According to a release, they deserve the credit for performing like they did.”
In response to a question regarding Perera’s spectacular innings, Pollard stated, “The guys are free to go out there and use their abilities.” Cricket T10 is in session. We’re not going to put any kind of brake on them. We’ll accept it as part of the game if they are out while we’re losing wickets and exerting pressure.”
The New York Strikers lost their opening game of the season on Tuesday against the Deccan Gladiators, the reigning champions. Carl Crowe, head coach of the Strikers, went into more detail about the conversations that took place in the dressing room following the opening game.
“We were determined to turn things around after the first setback, and we are really happy that we did. During the pre-match meeting, we discussed a comeback extensively. We had a constructive conversation, were open and honest, and acknowledged our strengths and areas for improvement from Day 1 “said Crowe.
“Last year as well, we lost our first game and then we bounced back. And today we could accomplish the same thing. The game had its share of difficult moments. However, with a calm and collected captain like Pollard, nothing is ever a problem or impractical. It was a true team effort,” he continued.
Karunaratne, who picked three wickets in the day, also revealed how Pollard motivated the team in the middle. “The first 3-4 overs did not work for us. Pollard wanted a plan from all bowlers and we came together and set a field according to our plans. It started working. In the first 2-3 overs, they were attacking us, after that we thought if we continue to defend, they will attack. So we set an attacking field and we were able to get wickets at the right time,” he signed off.
New York Strikers will next face off against Northern Warriors on Friday.
