Lockie Ferguson made a memorable debut in the International League (ILT20) impressing with his first delivery, dismissing Joe Clarke with a stunning ball in Match 2 at mid-on. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Desert Vipers.
Desert Vipers captain Lockie Ferguson bats his first ball in the ILT20
The ball, delivered at 136 kph, demonstrated Ferguson's ability to deceive batsmen with uncharacteristic variations. Pushed further outside the off stump, the bowler moved in deep, taking the seam movement to the right. Clarke, while trying to drive the car, failed to explain the internal controls and ended up playing the wrong way. The result was spectacular – the ball eluded Clarke's bat and ripped off his leg stump, leaving him stunned and the crowd roaring. This accurate and devastating speech showed Ferguson's ability to adapt his skills to any situation, and emphasized his importance as a game changer. It was a great start for Ferguson, setting the tone for the ILT20 campaign.
Here is the video:
Speed limit! What is this happening?
Captain Ferguson comes in and saves the ball 1️⃣ 🫡# ILT20onZee #T20HeroesKaJalwa #DPWorldILT20 #ADKRvDV pic.twitter.com/Xchm2eZzaV
– Zee Cricket (@ilt20onzee) January 12, 2025
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A steady start for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders despite the early wickets
The Knight Riders faced an uphill battle in their second match of the ILT20 2025 against the Vipers when they were given the chance to bat at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The Knight Riders lost the first wicket, and Kyle Mayers leaving for just 2 runs in the third over, followed by the dismissal of Joe Clarke and Ferguson in the fourth over. Michael Pepper showed intent but fell to the finish line Sam Curranleaving the team at 39/3 after the powerplay.
Despite the difficulties, Salt stopped the innings with 36 from 31 balls, with the help of Alishan SharafuRegular support of 15 runs. Vipers bowlers, led by Mohammad Amir and Ferguson, kept things tight, with Amir conceding just six runs in 2.3 overs. In the middle, the Knight Riders managed to reach 68/3, maintaining 6 runs but needing a strong finish from the middle and bottom.