Walton slams ton as Harbhajan's Delhi Warriors beat Dhawan's Dubai Royals in opening game of World Legends Pro T20 League

Legends rolled back the years in Goa as the opening match of the World Legends Pro T20 League delivered an entertaining contest at the 1919 Sportz Stadium, leaving fans awestruck. The league got off to a bang with Delhi Warriors beating Dubai Royals, as the opening day witnessed 394 runs in a high-scoring affair.

Chasing a competitive target of 197, Chadwick Walton’s century, the first of the tournament - coming in the opening game itself, led the Delhi Warriors’ chase with ease, helping the team secure a comfortable nine-wicket win.

Delhi chased down the target in 16.3 overs, with 21 balls to spare, courtesy of Walton’s dominant batting display, who was ably supported by Sreevats Goswami. Both dominated the Dubai bowling attack, sharing an opening partnership of 159 runs before Goswami was dismissed for 56, which laid the foundation of the chase. Piyush Chawla picked up the only wicket for Dubai on the night.

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Reacting to his innings, Walton said, “The atmosphere in Goa was fantastic, and the crowd gave us great energy, and the real difference came from the dressing room. The skipper keeps it relaxed and positive, which gives everyone the confidence to express themselves, and that calm showed even while chasing a big total.”

“It was obviously the first game, and we got off to a very good start. Cricket coming to Goa is a big thing, and for us to be here for this reason makes it even more special. It’s amazing to play in front of such a passionate crowd, and full credit to the fans for supporting the game. Winning the toss helped, and Chadwick and Srivastav were outstanding. I have always believed a happy, united dressing room is key to success, and it’s always special to play alongside former teammates like Shikhar. Overall, it was a great outing and a fantastic start to the tournament, and I’m grateful to the organisers and fans for making it such a memorable event,” said Harbhajan Singh, Captain of Delhi Warriors.

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Earlier in the game, put in to bat, the Dubai Royals made a good start with openers Shikhar Dhawan and Kirk Edwards, both looking in good touch during the powerplay. The early momentum did not last long as Delhi skipper Harbhajan Singh dismissed Dhawan to provide Delhi with a timely breakthrough.

Kirk Edwards, along with Peter Trego, rebuilt the innings with a 95-run partnership, which was once again broken by Harbhajan Singh. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals, Trego anchored the innings with a half-century, guiding Dubai to a competitive total. Subodh Bhati stood out as the key bowler for Delhi with figures of 3 for 37.

Fans are in for a double treat on Tuesday, 27th January, as Pune Panthers take on Gurugram Thunders in the afternoon game before Rajasthan Lions take on the mighty Maharashtra Tycoons with Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill, Shane Watson, Suresh Raina, JP Duminy, Stuart Broad all expected to set the field on fire.