Z Games Strikers triumph in thrilling final to claim 36th Sharjah Ramadan T20 League title
The 36th edition of the Sharjah Ramadan T20 League concluded in spectacular fashion at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, as Z Games Strikers edged past GEMS Education CC in a nerve-wracking final, winning by 2 wickets to lift the prestigious title.
The tournament, which commenced on March 1st, saw 20 top teams from across the UAE battle it out in a total of 47 matches, culminating in an exhilarating final showdown.
After winning the toss, Z Games Strikers elected to field first, a decision that paid off 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 9 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.
The winners and standout performers were recognized with special awards:
• Winning Team (Z Games Strikers): Dhs10,000 cash prize
• Runners-Up (GEMS Education CC): Dhs5,000 cash prize
• Best Batter: Vaibhav Govekar (Colatta Warriors) – 297 runs in 5 innings at an average of 74.25
• Best Bowler: Nilansh Keswani (Z Games Strikers) – 12 wickets in 7 innings
• Player of the Tournament: Luqman Faisal (Seven Districts) – 326 runs in 5 innings at an average of 81.5 with a strike rate of 210
With this victory, Z Games Strikers have cemented their status as one of the elite teams in UAE's domestic cricket, showcasing their depth, resilience, and championship pedigree.
Brief Scores:
Z Games Strikers bt GEMS Education CC by 2 wickets.
GEMS Education CC 169/8 in 20 Overs (Rashid Habib 65, Affaq Shahid 58,Zeeshan Naseer 3 for 27, Umair Ali 2 for 31) Z Games Strikers 170/8 in 19.5 Overs (Zeeshan Abid 33, Umair Ali 27, Faraazuddin – 2 for 21, Ahmad Khalid 2 for 32)
Scorecard Link : https://cricheroes.in/tournament/1361087/36th-Sharjah-Ramadan-Cup-2025-(T20)
Live Match Link : https://www.youtube.com/live/JV2trJjaH7g?feature=shared
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