Nissanka powers Gulf Giants to winning start

Gulf Giants launched their ILT20 campaign with a dominant six-wicket victory over MI Emirates in Dubai, chasing down a target of 164 in just 14.4 overs. Pathum Nissanka's explosive 81 off 42 balls set the foundation, while Azmatullah Omarzai provided a blistering finish with an unbeaten 39 from 16 deliveries.

Earlier, MI Emirates posted 163 for 6 after being asked to bat. Kieron Pollard top-scored with a 33-ball 50, and Nicholas Pooran contributed 46 in a 78-run partnership. The Giants' bowlers, led by Omarzai (2-32) and Nuwan Thushara (2-41), kept regular breakthroughs.

In reply, the Giants stumbled early to 16 for 2, with Chris Woakes claiming both openers. Nissanka steadied the innings alongside Moeen Ali, who made a brisk 27. After Moeen's run-out, Nissanka accelerated, reaching his fifty and forming a devastating 97-run stand with Omarzai off just 41 balls. Omarzai's assault, including a 23-run over against Rashid Khan, shifted the match decisively. Nissanka fell with seven runs needed, but the Giants sealed the win comfortably.

Brief Scores:
MI Emirates 163/6 in 20 overs (Kieron Pollard 50, Nicholas Pooran 46; Azmatullah Omarzai 2-32, Nuwan Thushara 2-41) lost to Gulf Giants 164/4 in 14.4 overs (Pathum Nissanka 81, Azmatullah Omarzai 39*; Chris Woakes 2-49) by 6 wickets.