In the ongoing ILT20 tournament in the UAE, group stage matches are currently being held. The 16th match took place in Dubai, featuring the Dubai Capitals against the Gulf Giants on January 23, 2025. This thrilling encounter witnessed Dubai’s team clinching a remarkable victory by 5 wickets, largely thanks to the explosive performance of Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka. In a breathtaking display of skill, he scored 34 runs off just 10 balls, guiding his team to a comfortable win while hitting several sixes and fours. Notably, Shanaka survived a bomb blast during the Easter attacks in Sri Lanka, making his performance even more inspiring.
Shanaka’s Explosive Innings
The Gulf Giants set a target of 154 runs after batting first. Dubai faced a challenging situation, losing 5 wickets while only managing to score 110 runs. Requiring 44 runs off 23 balls, the task seemed daunting on a tricky pitch. It was at this critical juncture that Dasun Shanaka entered the field. With no other batting options left, he took control of the game, scoring an impressive 34 runs with a strike rate of 340 from just 10 balls, significantly aiding his team’s cause. He struck 3 fours and 3 sixes, ultimately leading Dubai to victory with 8 balls to spare.
Superb hit for 6️⃣! Dasun Shanaka absolutely clobbered that! The ball never took flight but travelled the distance for one of the most sweetly timed flat sixes you’ll see! #DCvGG #DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/NU2pi1Buzm
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 23, 2025
It’s essential to remember that back in 2019, during the Easter celebrations in Sri Lanka, a series of bomb blasts resulted in the tragic loss of nearly 300 lives and left more than 500 injured. Dasun Shanaka’s family was also affected, as his mother and grandmother sustained injuries. He survived this horrific incident and described it as one of the most terrifying experiences of his life—an ordeal he will never forget.
Hope Emerges as the Match Hero
Prior to Shanaka’s whirlwind performance, Shehope laid a solid foundation with a commendable innings. As Dubai chased down 154 runs, the team found itself in a dire situation, losing its first wicket for just 25 runs. With the score at 41, they lost the second wicket, and the third fell at 60. Amidst the falling wickets, Hope remained steadfast at one end, continuously scoring runs. He made 47 runs off 39 balls, propelling the team’s total to 110 before getting out. The finishing touches were provided by Shanaka and captain Sikandar Raza. While Shanaka scored 34 runs off 10 balls, Raza contributed with 26 runs at a strike rate of 173, ensuring a smooth victory for the team. Hope’s stellar performance earned him the Player of the Match award.