Sharjah Warriorz stun MI Emirates to secure DP World ILT20 clash against Desert Vipers

Sharjah Warriorz secured a six-wicket victory over defending champions MI Emirates in the DP World ILT20 Eliminator on Thursday, setting up a clash with Desert Vipers for a place in the final against Dubai Capitals. (Supplied)
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Updated 06 February 2025
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Sharjah Warriorz stun MI Emirates to secure DP World ILT20 clash against Desert Vipers

  • Warriorz set for showdown in attempt to claim spot in Sunday’s final

ABU DHABI: Sharjah Warriorz secured a six-wicket victory over defending champions MI Emirates in the DP World ILT20 Eliminator on Thursday, setting up a clash with Desert Vipers for a place in the final against Dubai Capitals.

A blistering cameo from Tim Seifert (40 off 20 balls) and a disciplined bowling effort, led by Tim Southee, helped the Warriorz past MI Emirates’ modest total of 146 for eight at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. The win ensures new champions will be crowned in the third season of ILT20 as both previous title holders have now been knocked out.

Chasing 147, Sharjah got off to a flying start, with Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Johnson Charles racking up 23 runs in the first two overs.

Charles, who was in sublime form, struck 36 off 20 balls before falling to young UAE pacer Muhammad Rohid, who made an immediate impact with two crucial wickets in the 13th over.

Despite this setback, the Warriorz remained in control, thanks to Kohler-Cadmore’s steady knock (40 off 40) and Seifert’s late onslaught. The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter sealed the win in style, hammering 16 runs in the 19th over.

MI Emirates had earlier struggled to build momentum after losing Andre Fletcher in the opening over. Tom Banton (29) and Nicholas Pooran (42 off 19) provided some resistance, with Pooran becoming only the third batter to surpass 1,000 ILT20 runs.

However, disciplined spells from Dilshan Madushanka and Southee kept the Emirates in check, with the defending champions ultimately restricted to a below-par total.

Reflecting on the defeat, Pooran, the captain of MI Emirates, said: “We were below par; we put ourselves in a hole. It was difficult to defend on this surface where there wasn’t much assistance for the bowlers.

“Our bowlers tried very hard; credit must be given to them. They (Warriorz) took their chances. We didn’t have an answer for them. Congrats to them. You get what you deserve; we haven’t been consistent. Looking forward to next year.”

Player of the match Seifert praised his side’s efforts, and added: “(It’s) always nice to get to that winning position. Our bowlers did a great job. (There is a) big semifinal coming up. Hopefully we can make it to the final.”


LIV Golf Hong Kong dates announced as event leadership reaffirms commitment to the region

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LIV Golf Hong Kong dates announced as event leadership reaffirms commitment to the region

  • Fourth edition to take place Feb. 18-21, 2027, at Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling
  • Scott O’Neil: Hong Kong is a cornerstone of our international calendar and an important gateway for golf’s continued growth in Asia

HONG KONG: LIV Golf today announced the dates for HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong 2027, which will return for its fourth edition from Feb. 18-21, continuing its long-term commitment to the region and reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as one of Asia’s premier destinations for global sport and entertainment.

The announcement was made during a press conference at Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling by Scott O’Neil, LIV Golf CEO; Andrea de Vincentiis, HSBC managing director and global head of brand partnerships; and Andy Kwok, Hong Kong Golf Club captain.

The 2027 dates align the tournament within Hong Kong’s vibrant calendar of major international events and reinforce a sustained multi-year partnership between LIV Golf, HSBC, the Hong Kong SAR Government and Hong Kong Golf Club.

HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong will continue to be an “M” Mark event in 2027, helping promote Hong Kong as a center for international sports events. The “M” Mark status, awarded by the Major Sports Events Committee, symbolizes signature events in the territory’s sports calendar.

Ticket holders for this week’s event, which takes place Thursday, March 5, through Sunday, March 8, will have exclusive early access to specially priced 2027 tickets beginning this Sunday at LIVGolf.com. Organizers thanked the Hong Kong Tourism Board for the continued event support, including planning and promotion.

O’Neil said: “Hong Kong is a cornerstone of our international calendar and an important gateway for golf’s continued growth in Asia. As the world’s golf league, LIV Golf is committed to investing in dynamic markets like Hong Kong, where sport, entertainment and culture are celebrated and recognized on a global scale.

“Announcing our 2027 event a year in advance is a testament to the local support and momentum building in Hong Kong. I want to thank our partners at HSBC, the HKSAR Government, and Hong Kong Golf Club, who all share in our vision to grow the game and continue delivering a world-class event that connects with fans of all ages and brings significant economic impact to the region.”

De Vincentiis said: “HSBC has supported golf globally for more than 20 years, and our partnership with LIV Golf represents a natural evolution of that legacy. It reflects both our international network and our long-standing commitment to Hong Kong.

“HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong showcases the city to a global audience while contributing to the growth of the game across Asia. We are proud to continue our support to an event that aligns with our ambitions internationally and within this great community.”

Kwok said: “Established in 1889, Hong Kong Golf Club has a proud history of hosting world-class tournaments. We understand the responsibility that comes with staging global competition at this level.

“LIV Golf has brought new energy and new audiences to Fanling, while respecting the traditions of the game. We are proud to continue welcoming the league and its players to one of Asia’s most historic venues.”

Since its debut in Hong Kong in 2024, the tournament has produced memorable moments and showcased elite competition at one of Asia’s most respected championship venues.

Across its 14-event global schedule, LIV Golf events have generated more than $1 billion in economic impact for host cities worldwide, supporting tourism, hospitality and local communities while delivering international broadcast reach of over 900 million.

The 2026 edition takes place this week at Hong Kong Golf Club, featuring a 57-player international field competing across four days.