Hales power, Hasaranga’s three-fer hands Desert Vipers their second win
Alex Hales hits a boundary against ADKR (Source: ILT20)
Alex Hales orchestrated another successful run-chase for the Desert Vipers, marking his side’s second win in succession this ILT20 2023 season. The Colin Munro-led team also elevated themselves to number two on the points table, and handed the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders their third heavy defeat of the tournament.
Hasaranga spins a web around Knight Riders
Desert Vipers’ Sri Lankan import Wanindu Hasaranga struck thrice during the Knight Riders’ innings in his economical four-over spell. The spinner wrecked their middle-order, by claiming his three victims in a space of five deliveries just prior to the death overs.
Knight Riders opener Brandon King registered the only 50-plus score for his side, as Sunil Narine and co. were restricted to 133-8 owing to some tight bowling by the Vipers.
Alex Hales continues fine tune with the bat, seals another run-chase
In response, openers Rohan Mustafa and Alex Hales utilised the powerplay field, reached 39 within three-and-a-half overs. While Mustafa departed after a quickfire 11-ball 23, the Englishmen stayed till the edge of the finishing line by whacking 64 runs from just 47 balls.
Wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings anchored the run-chase till the end with 35*, thus negating the Knight Riders’ West Indian threat of Narine, Andre Russell and Akeal Hosein.
Brief scores:
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 133-8 (20)
Brandon King 57 (44), Charith Asalanka 26 (21)
Wanindu Hasaranga 3-18, Gus Atkinson 2-35
Desert Vipers: 135-3 (15.4)
Alex Hales 64 (47), Sam Billings 35* (29)
Akeal Hosein 1-24, Sunil Narine 1-26
Desert Vipers won by seven wickets
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