T10: Boult was motivating me, says UAE's Zahoor after match-winning spell

For a man who was deprived of recognition in his native Pakistan despite impressive performances in first-class cricket, Zahoor Khan continues to hit the headlines in the UAE, his adopted home.

The pace bowler, one of the top performers for the UAE at the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia last year, struck vital blows to help defending champions Deccan Gladiators make the perfect start in the 2023 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 on Tuesday.

Zahoor (2/12) even managed to outshine his illustrious teammate Trent Boult in Gladiators' 22-run win at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.

The 34-year-old dismissed Kusal Perera, the dangerous Sri Lankan opener, in the third over of the innings before claiming the big wicket of Kieron Pollard.

"It was an honour for me to bowl alongside Trent Boult. He is an absolute legend. He was always motivating me to bowl better," Zahoor told the Khaleej Times after the opening match of the Abu Dhabi T10.

"I could have taken three wickets today, but a catch was dropped off my bowling. But I am very happy with the way I bowled tonight.

"And having Boult as a bowling partner is amazing. He encourages you so much. It's a great start for the team. Hopefully I can continue this and become the best bowler of the tournament."

After being asked to bat first, the Gladiator made 118 for eight in 10 overs, thanks to a magnificent 33-ball 68 from Tom Kohler-Cadmore.