Pooran’s cameo helps propel Gladiators to second title

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (CMC):

CAPTAIN NICHOLAS Pooran cracked an enterprising 28 at the top of the order to guide Deccan Gladiators to their second Abu Dhabi T10 title in three years with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Morrisville Samp Army yesterday at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Pooran lashed three sixes and one four in just 10 balls and shared a blistering 51-run opening partnership with Tom Kohler-Cadmore in 3.2 overs and the Gladiators overhauled the Samp Army’s 104 for seven, romping to 110 for two in 6.5 overs.

Kohler-Cadmore hit an unbeaten 56 from 21 balls, inclusive of five fours and four sixes, and also shared a 44-run partnership with Rilee Rossouw following Pooran’s dismissal.

Earlier, fast bowler Richard Gleeson, who was named player-of-the-match, took 2-16 from his two overs to help restrict the Samp Army.

The Samp Army was led by Faf du Plessis with 34 from 23 balls, while Andries Gous smashed 21 from nine balls.