Despite being a young spinner eager to bowl with the new ball, Gulf Giants’ Aayan Afzal Khan didn’t open against the Sharjah Warriorz on Wednesday.
However, the 20-year-old delivered crucial blows, paving the way for the Giants’ comeback after the Warriorz gained an upper hand.
The skilled UAE left-arm spinner claimed three wickets (4-0-17-3), setting up the Giants’ six-wicket victory in the ILT20 at Dubai International Stadium.
Aayan’s inspiring spell at a venue where he previously led the UAE to a memorable win against Tim Southee’s New Zealand in a 2023 T20I helped restrict the Warriorz to 157 for six.
Notably, New Zealand’s Tim Southee once again faced Aayan’s brilliance as the Warriorz suffered their third consecutive defeat in ILT20’s fourth season.
Aayan bowled with precision to dismiss Johnson Charles (36), Kusal Mendis (23), and Tim David (19)—all formidable T20 hitters—and earned the man-of-the-match honor.
“The pitch favored spin, and I’m glad to take a few wickets,” Aayan remarked.
“Bowling four overs felt great. I hadn’t bowled in a few games, so it was nice to be back. This match was beneficial for me, and I’m thrilled to receive this award.”
Thanks to Aayan’s spell, chasing 158 was a breeze for the Giants, who reached the target in 19.4 overs, losing just four wickets.
Dynamic Afghan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz (50 off 36 balls) and captain James Vince (35 off 28 balls) put together 78 in 7.4 overs for the opening wicket, ensuring a straightforward victory.
Vince lauded his bowlers, especially Aayan. “Bowling first, the spinners were exceptional in the middle. Whenever he (Aayan) plays, he excels,” he said.
The Giants climbed to second place on the points table with six points from four matches, trailing leaders Desert Vipers by two points.
Brief scores
Gulf Giants defeated Sharjah Warriorz by six wickets.
Sharjah Warriorz 157/6 in 20 overs (Dwaine Pretorius 36, Johnson Charles 36, Tim David 19, Aayan Khan 3 for 17, Mark Adair 2 for 22, Liam Dawson 1 for 22)
Gulf Giants 158/4 in 19.4 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 50, James Vince 35, Azmatullah Omarzai 28, Sikandar Raza 2 for 20, Adil Rashid 1 for 21)
Player of the Match: Aayan Khan
