The inaugural edition of the World Legends Pro T20 League concluded in emphatic fashion in Goa, with Dubai Royals clinching the title after a commanding eight-wicket victory over Pune Panthers in the final.
After winning the toss, Pune Panthers elected to bat first. Dubai Royals opened the bowling with spin from both ends, introducing Samit Patel and Parvez Rasool early. The move, however, did little to contain Pune’s openers, who put on a solid 100-run partnership.
Upul Tharanga anchored the innings with a composed 55 before Parvez Rasool broke the stand to give Dubai their first breakthrough. Piyush Chawla then turned the momentum, striking twice in quick succession to dismiss the in-form Martin Guptill for 62 and removing Pune captain Kieron Pollard cheaply. Shane Watson provided the finishing flourish, smashing an unbeaten 24-ball half-century to propel Pune Panthers to a competitive 194/4 at the end of 20 overs.
Also Read: Sarfaraz Khan hospitalised, doubtful for Ranji Trophy quarter-final
Chasing a stiff target under pressure, Dubai Royals got off to a steady start, with Manvinder Bisla setting the tone through a fluent half-century. At the other end, skipper Shikhar Dhawan in outstanding form throughout the tournament, continued his sublime run with yet another fifty, keeping the Royals firmly in control.
Dhawan was eventually dismissed for 64, with Dwayne Bravo providing a brief opening for Pune. Bisla followed soon after, but any hopes of a late comeback were extinguished as Samit Patel and Ambati Rayudu stitched together a crucial 50-run partnership, steering Dubai Royals to victory with an over to spare.
With the win, Dubai Royals were crowned the first-ever champions of the World Legends Pro T20 League.
The 10-day tournament, held at Goa’s 1919 Sportz Stadium, brought together 90 legendary cricketers from across the globe and delivered a highly competitive brand of cricket. The final was attended by Goa Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A Khaunte and Priol MLA Shri Govind Gaude, underlining the state’s strong support for sporting initiatives.
Highlighting the wider impact of such events, Shri Rohan A Khaunte said sports tourism plays a key role in diversifying Goa’s tourism economy by attracting athletes, families and fans, while creating tangible benefits for local businesses and communities.
