Z Games Strikers clinch Sharjah Ramadan T20 League title

Sharjah: Z Games Strikers edged past GEMS Education CC by two wickets in a nerve-wracking final to clinch the 36th edition of the Sharjah Ramadan T20 League at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

The tournament saw 20 top teams from across the UAE battle it out in a total of 47 matches

Games Strikers bowlers put on a fine show as they managed to restrict GEMS Education CC to 169/8 in 20 overs. Leading the bowling attack, Zeeshan Naseer was the standout performer, taking 3 wickets for just 27 runs, maintaining an economy of 6.75 runs per over.

Despite the early setbacks, Rashid Habib (65) and Affaq Shahid (58) anchored the innings for GEMS, helping them post a competitive total.

Chasing 170 for victory, Z Games Strikers faced early trouble, losing two quick wickets in the powerplay. However, Raees Ahmad and captain Shahrukh Amin steadied the innings, ensuring their team remained in contention. The game remained evenly poised as Zeeshan Abid top-scored with 33 off 20 balls, while several other batsmen contributed valuable 20+ scores.

With nine runs required in the final over, it was Nilansh Keswani who held his nerve to guide Z Games Strikers to a famous victory, sealing the title in a tense finish.

The all-round brilliance of Umair Ali proved crucial for Z Games Strikers, earning him the Player of the Final award. He contributed 27 runs off just 13 balls at a crucial stage and also picked up 2 wickets for 31 runs in his four overs.

The closing ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Khalaf Bukhatir, CEO, Sharjah Cricket, Nasir Akram, Member, Sharjah Cricket Council, Mazhar Khan, General Manager, Sharjah Cricket, and Tehseen Javed, Member, Sharjah Cricket.