Captain Nicholas Pooran delivered an all-around masterclass to lead the Deccan Gladiators to a convincing 45-run victory over Morrisville Samp Army in the Abu Dhabi T10 League on Sunday. The league leaders showcased their dominance as Pooran's unbeaten knock of 72 powered them to an unassailable total, while their disciplined bowling sealed the result.
Pooran, who has been in exceptional form this season, smashed 72 not out off just 33 balls, featuring four fours and five towering sixes. He combined with Tom Kohler-Cadmore, who blasted a rapid 51 from 24 balls with five fours and three sixes, in a blistering opening partnership of 124 runs off 51 balls. The dynamic duo laid the foundation for a commanding total of 147-2 from their 10 overs. Mohammad Zahid was the only bowler to make a mark for the Samp Army, picking up 2-31 from his two overs.
Chasing a steep target of 148, the Morrisville Samp Army never truly recovered from the scoreboard pressure. Despite brief resistance from Andries Gous (22 off 14 balls) and Faf du Plessis (21 off 10 balls), the required rate of nearly 15 runs per over proved insurmountable. Pooran was instrumental behind the stumps as well, stumping Gous, running out Du Plessis, and taking a sharp catch to dismiss Imad Wasim (9). Jack Taylor (25 not out) and Rohan Mustafa (13 not out) offered late resistance, but the Samp Army’s innings fizzled out at 102-5, handing the Gladiators a dominant 45-run victory.
The Gladiators’ bowlers were clinical in defending the total. Usman Tariq returned economical figures of 2-19, while Richard Gleeson was sensational, conceding just four runs and picking up one wicket in his spell.
This emphatic victory further cements the Deccan Gladiators’ position at the top of the table as they continue their march toward playoff contention. Pooran’s form with both bat and gloves has been pivotal to the team’s success, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic players in the tournament. The Gladiators will look to carry their momentum forward as the Abu Dhabi T10 League heats up, with Nicholas Pooran leading the charge in their quest for the title.