NEW DELHI: MI Emirates thrashed Sharjah Warriorz by nine wickets in the 11th match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 on Sunday in a lop-sided encounter in Sharjah.
Tom Banton’s scintillating unbeaten century stole the spotlight as MI Emirates chased down a target of 177 with ease.
After MI Emirates won the toss and opted to bowl, Sharjah Warriorz managed a respectable total of 176/9 in their 20 overs.
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The innings was anchored by Johnson Charles, who top-scored with a brisk 59 off 42 balls, including six fours and three sixes. Contributions from Avishka Fernando (39 off 17) and late Adam Milne flourish (8 not out off 5) added some weight to the score.
The MI Emirates’ bowlers showcased a disciplined effort. Fazalhaq Farooqi was the standout, picking up 4/24 in his four-over spell, including the crucial wickets of Jason Roy, Charles, and Keemo Paul.
Alzarri Joseph also played his part with 2/39, while Waqar Salamkheil added a wicket.
Chasing 177, MI Emirates got off to a steady start despite losing Muhammad Waseem early for 12.
From there, the partnership between Kusal Perera and Tom Banton took centre stage. The pair stitched an unbroken 165-run stand, dismantling the Warriorz’s bowling attack.
Banton, in sensational form, smashed an unbeaten 102 off just 55 balls, hitting ten fours and six sixes at a strike rate of 185.45.
Kusal Perera ably supported him with a composed 56 not out off 42 balls. Their remarkable partnership saw MI Emirates reach the target in just 17.4 overs.
The victory propelled MI Emirates to second on the points table, with four points and a net run rate of +0.277, while Sharjah stay third with the same number of points, but with a negative net run rate of -0.201.
Desert Vipers remain at the top, unbeaten after four games.
