Jason Holder’s Bizarre No-Ball in ILT20 Match Adds Unexpected Twist to Knight Riders’ Victory
In a moment that quickly went viral, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder bowled one of the most unusual deliveries in recent T20 cricket during the ILT20 Eliminator at the Dubai International Stadium. The incident occurred during the crucial clash between the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and the Dubai Capitals, a match the Knight Riders won convincingly by 50 runs to advance to Qualifier 2.
The Viral No-Ball Incident
While bowling, the ball slipped from Holder’s grip upon release, sailing high over the batter’s head and landing near the first slip area. Match officials immediately reviewed the delivery, ultimately calling it a no-ball under laws designed to protect batters from dangerous high full-tosses. The bizarre moment, shared widely by the ILT20’s official channels, provided a humorous twist in an otherwise high-stakes knockout game, sparking amused reactions from fans and commentators alike.
Match Summary: Knight Riders Secure Dominant Win
Despite the curious incident, Holder and his team delivered a commanding performance.
First Innings: After winning the toss, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders posted 158/7. Opener Michael Pepper top-scored with a fluent 72, well-supported by Phil Salt’s 43. Jason Holder added a quick, unbeaten 22.
Second Innings: In response, the Dubai Capitals’ batting lineup crumbled, bowled out for just 108 in 16.2 overs. Holder redeemed his odd delivery with an excellent bowling spell, taking 3/18. Sunil Narine was equally destructive, also claiming three wickets.
The comprehensive victory eliminated the Dubai Capitals and set up a Qualifier 2 showdown for the Knight Riders against MI Emirates, with the winner facing the Desert Vipers in the final.
Holder’s All-Round Leadership
Beyond the viral moment, Jason Holder’s overall impact was pivotal. As captain, he led from the front, contributing with both bat and ball. His three-wicket haul underscored his value as a match-winner, ensuring the odd no-ball remained a footnote in a decisive team victory.
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Looking Ahead
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will now carry this momentum into their next knockout match. While the Capitals’ campaign ends, the bizarre no-ball incident involving one of T20’s star all-rounders will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most shared and talked-about moments, highlighting the unpredictable entertainment that defines the shortest format of the game.
