In a sensational display of power-hitting prowess, Nicholas Pooran led the Deccan Gladiators to a resounding 10-wicket triumph over the Bangla Tigers in a thrilling eliminator match of the Abu Dhabi T10 league on Friday.

Facing the formidable target of 112-6 set by the Tigers, courtesy of Gulbadin Naib's gritty 52, the Gladiators wasted no time in their pursuit. Pooran's explosive innings, a blitzkrieg of 70 runs from a mere 25 balls, propelled the Gladiators to an astonishing 114-0 in just 6.4 overs.

The Trinidadian dynamo, reaching his half-century in a mere 16 balls, fittingly sealed the victory by dispatching Dominic Drakes' delivery over short third man for his eighth four. Pooran's innings included an impressive five sixes, showcasing his dominance in the Gladiators' unbroken opening stand with Tom Kohler-Cadmore. Kohler-Cadmore contributed a notable 43 from 16 balls, embellished with four fours and three sixes.

Earlier in the match, Andre Russell emerged as a key figure for the Gladiators, taking two crucial wickets to stifle the Tigers' innings and limit them to a challenging total. Russell dismissed Tom Abell early on for a mere five runs, as the Tigers found themselves struggling at 20-3 in the third over. Despite a brief recovery led by Pathum Nissanka's 25, Russell struck again, removing Nissanka from the equation.

Gulbadin Naib, however, staged a commendable comeback for the Tigers with an unbeaten half-century (52 from 26 balls), guiding his team past the 100-run mark. Benny Howell chipped in with 11 from six balls to set a competitive target.

Russell concluded with impressive figures of 2-21, setting the stage for the Gladiators' dominant performance. The Gladiators' opening pair, once again, proved unstoppable, dismantling the Tigers' bowling attack and securing a convincing victory with a remarkable 20 balls to spare.

Deccan Gladiators, the defending champions, are set to face Samp Army in Eliminator 2 later on Friday.