The Texas Gladiators dominate the Atlanta Kings in a low-scoring contest as the NCL Sixty Strikes comes to a close

By Rifat Malik and Abdullah Ghauri

Game 14 of the NCL Sixty Strikes Tournament in Dallas, Texas featured a showdown between the Atlanta Kings and Texas Gladiators, with their respective international stars promising a thrilling game that ended with a dominant performance from the home team.

The Kings, led by Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews, featured the top talents of England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings, hard-hitting New Zealander James Neesham and experienced South African spinner Imran Tahir. On the other hand, the Texas Gladiators, led by legendary Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi, had an equally formidable squad that also included fellow fiery fast bowler Wahab Riaz and England’s top batter Dawid Malan.

Toss and early collapse for Kings

After winning the toss, Mathews decided to bat first but the decision quickly backfired. The Gladiators’ bowling attack, led by Afridi, was relentless and Atlanta struggled to find a rhythm. With Wahab Riaz, Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff and Nisarg Patel all in top form, Atlanta’s batting order collapsed.

The Kings were bowled out for just 61 runs, with James Neesham the only batsman to reach double figures, scoring 12. The rest of the lineup couldn’t get going and Texas’ bowlers kept the pressure on. Riaz, Patel and Behrendorff took two wickets each and put on a disciplined bowling show.

The Texas Gladiators sail to victory

In response, the Texas Gladiators had a bit of a goal to pursue, but they didn’t quite have it their way. They lost their opener early when Lewis was out for just 4 runs. However, England’s Malan and New Zealand’s Nick Kelly steadied the innings. Malan played a measured knock of 29 while Kelly remained unbeaten on 16, leading the Gladiators to an easy win with 8 wickets in hand.

Imran Tahir and Mathews took a wicket each for the Kings, but that wasn’t enough to stop Texas from claiming a comfortable win.

Gladiators march on

With this win, the Gladiators continue to impress in the NCL Sixty Strikes tournament and demonstrate the strength and depth of their roster. Afridi’s leadership and the team’s versatile bowling attack were too much for Atlanta.

Behrendorff’s Bowling Masterclass – Player of the Match

Australian pacer Behrendorff was the standout performer and delivered a game-winning bowling performance. His figures of 2/11 in 2 overs, combined with his control and precision, earned him the Man of the Match award, underlining his importance to the Texas Gladiators’ season.