Dubai Capitals (DC) snatched a dramatic five-wicket win from the jaws of defeat in the ILT20 on Friday thanks to a last-ball six by the brilliant Sikandar Raza. Chasing a challenging 171 set by Desert Vipers, Raza produced a match-winning innings of 60 unbeaten runs, including a last-ball six that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
Raza’s heroics overshadowed Alex Hales’ earlier knock of 66 for the Vipers, who looked set for victory after posting a decent total. However, Dubai Capitals’ spinners tightened the screws, and Sikandar Raza took over the chase with a crucial fourth-wicket partnership with Sam Billings (67) and a late flourish with Dasun Shanaka (21).
Needing 13 runs from the final over, the tension was palpable. But the ice-cool Sikandar Raza kept his head, dispatching a yorker from 19-year-old Ali Naseer over long-on for a six to seal the win in sensational fashion.
Sikandar Raza on ILT20 thriller
“I said to myself, I don’t think he’ll go short,” Sikandar Raza explained later, reflecting on his last-ball heroics. “I just held my shape, tried to hit it in the air, and hit it as well as I can.”
Raza, known for his clutch performances, once again lived up to his reputation. He now holds the record for most T20 Man of the Match awards (11), a testament to his impact in high-pressure situations.
His knock left teammates and opponents equally impressed. “He showed his true character and skill,” said Sam Billings, praising Raza’s composure. “We just had to hang in there, and he took us home.”
Even Vipers captain Colin Munro acknowledged Raza’s brilliance. “Credit to Raza, he played a fantastic innings,” Munro said. “He will be remembered for this for a long time.”
This last-ball thriller has not only given Dubai Capitals a crucial win but also provided the ILT20 with a moment that will be etched in its history. With Raza in such devastating form, Dubai Capitals remain strong contenders for the title, and fans can expect more heart-stopping finishes in the coming matches.
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