The Dubai Royals completed a remarkable run at the World Legends Pro T20 League 2026, outclassing the Pune Panthers by 8 wickets in the final at the 1919 Sportz Cricket Stadium in Verna, Goa on February 4, securing one of the most memorable titles of the inaugural legends tournament. Led superbly by Shikhar Dhawan, the Royals produced an authoritative performance to lift the trophy and cap a week of entertaining T20 action featuring some of the game’s most beloved former stars.
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Royals chase down final target with ease
In a final billed as a clash of experience and flair, Pune Panthers had set a competitive total of 194 for 4 in their 20 overs, with Upul Tharanga’s brisk 55 off 39 balls and Martin Guptill’s 62 off 40 laying a solid foundation. The Panthers looked set to challenge, but the Dubai Royals had a different story in mind when they came out to chase.
Dubai’s pursuit was led from the front by captain Shikhar Dhawan, whose well-paced 64 off 39 balls anchored the chase and ensured the required rate remained comfortably in check.
Manvinder Bisla’s powerful 67 off 44 provided blazing support in the top order, putting the pressure right back on the Panthers bowlers early in the run chase.
The Royals reached 197 for 2 in 19 overs, completing the target with 5 balls to spare and doing so in emphatic fashion. Samit Patel’s brisk 28* off 14 & Ambati Rayudu 29* off 17 further solidified the victory, leaving little doubt over the outcome as Dubai celebrated their title success.
Captain leads from the front
Shikhar Dhawan’s innings was the defining performance of the final, blending timing, tactical astuteness and aggression. Coming into the game as one of the tournament’s consistent performers, Dhawan once again demonstrated his ability to shine under pressure. His leadership with the bat laid a platform for the Royals’ chase. He ended the tournament as second-highest run scorer with 267 runs in 6 matches.
Royals’ road to the title
The Royals’ path to glory was far from straightforward. Finishing fourth in the league stages, they had to produce standout performances to book their place in the knockout rounds. In the second semi-final against Delhi Warriors, Dhawan again led from the front with a timely contribution, taking his team to a 17-run victory to set up the title showdown.
Earlier in the tournament, Dubai Royals recorded key wins, including a seven-wicket victory over Maharashtra Tycoons where Dhawan produced an explosive 99 off 48 balls, showcasing his enduring batting prowess and ability to change matches single-handedly.
The blend of experience in the Royals’ squad, with seasoned former internationals like Samit Patel, Yusuf Pathan and the bowling experience of Piyush Chawla and Fidel Edwards, also played a vital role through the week, offering balance and depth that proved decisive against strong opponents.
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Legends return with panache
The World Legends Pro T20 League 2026 delivered nostalgia, excitement and memorable displays as cricket greats from around the world reunited on the field. Held exclusively in Goa, the event brought fans back into the stands to celebrate players who once lit up international cricket, blending competitive T20 action with entertainment.
Six teams competed over 18 matches, culminating in a final that highlighted both individual brilliance and team cohesion. Fans enjoyed legends like Gayle, Cook, Watson, Guptill, Pujara, Dhawan & many more deliver with bat and ball, offering a unique blend of skill and experience.
Dubai Royals’ triumph in the Legends Pro T20 final marked a fitting climax to a tournament that honoured cricket’s storied past while delivering gripping competitive cricket.
