Hope among the Caribbean’s best at ILT20

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC):

West Indies and Barbados batsman Shai Hope stole the spotlight for the champions Dubai Capitals by securing the Green Belt for being the season's best batter in the just-concluded ILT20 here in Dubai.

Hope's consistent brilliance with the bat was instrumental in the Capitals' success, as his vital 43-run knock in the final took his tournament tally to 527 runs at an impressive average of 58.55, edging out MI Emirates' Tom Banton in a closely contested race for the Green Belt.

The stylish right-hander was one of only two centurions in the tournament, underlining his dominance in a league filled with world-class talent.

The Desert Vipers, despite falling short in the final, had their standout performer in Sam Curran, who claimed the Red Belt as the Most Valuable Player.

The tournament also saw other standout performances, with MI Emirates' Fazalhaq Farooqi earning the White Belt for the best bowler, thanks to his 21 wickets, including a record-breaking five for 16 in the season opener.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' West Indian all-rounder Jason Holder finished behind Farooqi with 17 wickets in 10 matches.

Meanwhile, MI Emirates' Muhammad Waseem continued his dominance among local talents, securing the Blue Belt as the best UAE player for the third consecutive season.