The final of the first ever Master Champions League (MCL) did not turn out the most entertaining T20 game ever, but it did have its fair share of drama towards the end as the Gemini Arabians edged the Leo Lions in a low scoring contest to lift the trophy. Gemini Arabians headed into the final as the undefeated team of the tournament, and walked out with the trophy the deserved winners. They were by far the best side of the inaugural league of legends, and were purely clinical throughout.
The Dubai pitches havent been the easiest to bat on and the Arabians despite a strong batting lineup, could only manage 130 in the first innings. In reply, the Leo Lions chase kicked off in the most horrible fashion imaginable. Carter, Taylor and Franklin all departed before the close of the 3rd over, leaving their side in need of a miracle comeback to have a chance at lifting the trophy.
Marshall and Lara fought well to lift the Lions up till 89 before the former fell. Marshall’s wicket led to slump almost identical to the one at the beginning of the chase. Former Pakistan seamer Rana Naveed recorded a historic hattrick to get rid of Botha, Streak and Lara in 3 deliveries, leaving too much to do for the Lions tail end which was wiped out before the end of the 20th over.