The Dubai Royals are champions of the first World Legends Pro T20 League! Read our full recap of the thrilling final in Goa, standout players like Guptill & Dhawan, and the tournament's impact.
The inaugural World Legends Pro T20 League concluded with a spectacular finale in Goa, crowning the Dubai Royals as the first-ever champions. The team secured the trophy with a commanding 8-wicket victory over the Pune Panthers in a high-scoring final at the 1919 Sportz Stadium in Verna, bringing a thrilling close to the week-long festival of legendary cricket held from January 26 to February 4, 2026.
The tournament, featuring iconic retired stars from across the globe, successfully blended nostalgic appeal with competitive T20 action, drawing enthusiastic crowds and spotlighting Goa as a vibrant sports destination.
The tournament final was a showcase of experienced talent. After winning the toss, the Pune Panthers elected to bat first and posted a challenging total of 194/4 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by a standout performance from Martin Guptill, who top-scored with 62 runs, ably supported by Upul Tharanga's 55.
In response, the Dubai Royals mounted a composed and dominant chase. Opener Manvinder Bisla set a fierce pace with a fluent 67 off 44 balls. Skipper Shikhar Dhawan, the tournament's batting stalwart for the Royals, played a captain's knock of 64 not out, guiding his team to the target with clinical precision. The Royals reached 197/2 in just 19 overs, sealing a convincing victory with contributions from Samit Patel and Ambati Rayudu.
The league was marked by exceptional individual performances that thrilled fans throughout:
The path to the championship was paved with compelling matches. In the semi-finals:
The league phase saw competitive intensity, including a heavy loss for the Royals against the Panthers earlier in the tournament, making their final victory a tale of successful redemption.
More than just a cricket tournament, the World Legends Pro T20 League served as a major cultural and economic event for Goa. The presence of local officials, including the Tourism Minister, underscored its role in promoting sports tourism and diversifying the state's appeal.
Fans celebrated the unique opportunity to see their childhood heroes—legends like Dhawan, Guptill, and others—compete live, an experience that bridged generations and inspired local cricketing passion. Organizers praised the event for creating a successful platform that combined sporting nostalgia with tangible community and economic benefits.
The resounding success of this first edition sets a promising precedent. The World Legends Pro T20 League has proven there is a passionate audience for veteran-focused cricket that pairs legendary skill with genuine competition. As the curtain falls in Goa, the cricket world eagerly anticipates the return of this unique spectacle in future seasons.
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