During an International League T20 (ILT20) match on Sunday, Desert Vipers captain Colin Munro showed the genuine spirit of sportsmanship by refusing to support his New Zealand colleague Martin Guptill in a run-out appeal.
In the thirteenth match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Desert Vipers lost by seven runs to the Sharjah Warriors. Choosing to bat first, Sharjah Warriors set a lofty goal of 175 points. Desert Vipers responded, but were unable to win the chase after scoring 167/7.
In the 12th over of Sharjah Warriors’ innings, there was a remarkable occurrence. Joe Denly sent the ball hurtling down the ground as wrist spinner Shadab Khan delivered a delivery. Sadly, Guptill, a non-striker, was caught in the line of fire when the ball struck his glove and deflected in the direction of the bowler, who quickly removed the bails.
Colin Munro made the admirable decision to withdraw the appeal, enabling Guptill to finish his innings.
After that, the Kiwi batsman made a vital 39 off 32 balls, including four fours and a six, until Shaheen Afridi got rid of him.
Despite their best efforts, Desert Vipers were unable to catch up as Munro was dismissed early by Chris Woakes. With three fours and five sixes in a fast 61 off 40 balls, opener Alex Hales attempted to lead the innings. Desert Vipers failed to reach the mark despite Azam Khan’s 35 off 22 addition.
The pivotal matchup between Desert Vipers and MI Emirates is the key to changing the course of the ILT20.
Desert Vipers, who have suffered three losses in their last four games, are presently struggling at the bottom of the ILT20 points standings. This impending matchup with MI Emirates on January 30 is going to be crucial for the team.
Desert Vipers are determined to fight back, hoping to turn things around and secure a more advantageous position in the current tournament.
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