Veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan produced a match-winning performance in his Global Super League debut for Dubai Capitals, leading them to a 22-run victory over Central Districts in the tournament opener at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Thursday.
The 38-year-old starred with both bat and ball, first crafting a composed unbeaten 58 off 37 deliveries to steer his side to 165 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. His innings featured seven fours and a six.
Shakib then turned the game decisively with the ball, opening his spell with a double-wicket maiden in the fifth over. He trapped Neil Young (19 off 16) and Foxcroft (0) leg-before in successive deliveries to leave Central Districts struggling at 30 for 2.
He returned later in the innings to clean bowl Josh Clarkson (12 off 10) and William Clark (20 off 19), finishing with outstanding figures of 4 for 13 from his four overs.
Shakib’s all-round heroics earned him the player-of-the-match award and gave Dubai Capitals a winning start to their campaign in the five-team league.
Dubai will next face Australian outfit Hobart Hurricanes on Friday.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) franchise and defending champions Rangpur Riders, led by Nurul Hasan Sohan, begin their tournament against Guyana Amazon Warriors tomorrow.
Shakib’s Dubai Capitals are scheduled to take on Rangpur on 16 July in a much-anticipated clash between the two Bangladeshi stars.