Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral
Legends rolled back the years in spectacular fashion as the World Legends Pro T20 League got underway at the 1919 Sportz Stadium, delivering a high-octane opening contest that thrilled fans and set the tone for the tournament. The inaugural match saw a combined total of 394 runs, with Delhi Warriors registering a commanding nine-wicket win over Dubai Royals.
Chasing a competitive target of 197, Delhi Warriors were led by a sensational unbeaten century from Chadwick Walton — the first hundred of the tournament, coming in its very first match. Walton’s masterclass ensured Delhi cruised to victory in just 16.3 overs, finishing with 21 balls to spare.
Walton was ably supported by Shreevats Goswami, with the duo putting on a dominant 159-run opening partnership that dismantled the Dubai bowling attack. Goswami departed after a fluent 56, but by then the contest was firmly in Delhi’s grasp. Piyush Chawla claimed the only wicket for Dubai Royals.
Reflecting on his innings, Walton said the electric atmosphere in Goa and the positive dressing-room environment played a crucial role. He credited the relaxed leadership and strong team camaraderie for allowing players to express themselves freely while chasing a challenging total.
Delhi Warriors captain Harbhajan Singh echoed those sentiments, highlighting the importance of unity and composure within the squad. He praised Walton and Goswami for their outstanding performances and acknowledged the passionate support of the Goan crowd in making the opening game memorable.
Earlier, Dubai Royals, sent in to bat, began positively with openers Shikhar Dhawan and Kirk Edwards building early momentum. However, Harbhajan Singh provided the breakthrough by dismissing Dhawan. Edwards then stitched together a vital 95-run partnership with Peter Trego, stabilising the innings before Harbhajan struck again.
Trego anchored the Dubai innings with a well-compiled half-century, guiding his side to a competitive total of 196 for 6. Subodh Bhati emerged as the standout bowler for Delhi, returning impressive figures of 3 for 37.
The tournament promises more excitement as fans look forward to a double-header on January 27, with Pune Panthers facing Gurugram Thunders, followed by Rajasthan Lions taking on Maharashtra Tycoons — a clash set to feature global stars including Chris Gayle, Martin Guptill, Shane Watson, Suresh Raina, JP Duminy and Stuart Broad.
Brief Scores
Dubai Royals: 196/6 (20 overs)
Peter Trego 60 (35)
Kirk Edwards 41 (28)
Subodh Bhati 3/37 (4)
Harbhajan Singh 2/25 (4)
Delhi Warriors: 198/1 (16.3 overs)
Chadwick Walton 128* (62)
Shreevats Goswami 56 (33)
Piyush Chawla 1/46 (4)
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