Dubai Capitals opened their Global Super League campaign with a 22-run win over Central Districts, thanks to a commanding all-round performance from Shakib Al Hasan.
Batting first, the Capitals managed 165 for 7. Shakib was the standout, staying unbeaten on 58 off 37 balls after the top order caved early. His innings, laced with seven fours and a six, came just in time—especially with Angus Schaw tearing through the middle order with figures of 3 for 27.
The innings began on a positive note, with opener Sediqullah Atal scoring a brisk 41 off 25 deliveries. But after Atal’s dismissal, the momentum shifted. It wasn’t until Shakib paired with lower-order batters Jesse Bootan (20) and Dominic Drakes (11) that the Capitals managed to push toward a defendable total.
Central Districts started their chase confidently. Will Young and Dane Cleaver added 30 runs for the first wicket. But the early promise unraveled quickly.
Shakib struck twice in the powerplay, removing both Young and Dean Foxcroft. His control and variation slowed the scoring and forced errors. He later bowled Josh Clarkson and William Clark to finish with figures of 4 for 13 in four overs, turning the match decisively in Dubai’s favor.
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Tom Bruce attempted to hold the innings together, top-scoring for Central Districts with 34. But support was limited, and once Shakib had done the damage, Khuzaima Tanveer mopped up the lower order to secure the win.
Dubai’s bowlers applied pressure throughout the second innings. The pace of the game shifted after each breakthrough, and the fielding effort remained sharp under lights.
The victory gives the ILT20 champions a strong start in the GSL. For Central Districts, it’s a loss that raises early questions about their middle-order stability and ability to handle spin under pressure.
The Capitals will now look to build momentum in upcoming matches, while Central Districts return to the drawing board after a faltering chase that never fully recovered from Shakib’s four-wicket haul.
