ETPL: Glenn Maxwell’s 60 Powers Belfast Wolves to Win Over Dublin Guardians

Belfast Wolves secured a strong 52-run victory over Dublin Guardians in their opening match of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) at Sportpark Westvliet. Despite a shaky start, the Wolves bounced back with aggressive batting and solid bowling to dominate the game.

Dublin won the toss and chose to bowl, hoping to capitalize on wet conditions. However, Belfast quickly took control. Paul Stirling set the tone with an aggressive 31-run innings, but early wickets left the team at 48 for three. Mark Chapman then stabilized with a composed 54, rebuilding the innings while maintaining the scoring rate.

Glenn Maxwell’s decisive 60 runs from just 38 deliveries turned the game in Belfast’s favor. His partnership with Chapman added 84 crucial runs, transforming the score to 152 for five by the 17th over. Maxwell’s performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Dublin struggled in their chase, losing six wickets for just 36 runs in the early stages. George Dockrell showed resistance with a 35-run innings, but it wasn’t enough to reach Belfast’s total of 184. The Guardians ended on 132 for nine after 20 overs.

Belfast’s bowling attack, led by Matthew Humphreys and Fred Klaassen, played a key role in keeping Dublin’s score low. Their disciplined performance ensured the Wolves’ victory, proving their depth and ability to handle pressure.

The match highlighted Belfast’s strength in both batting and bowling, setting them apart as strong contenders early in the ETPL tournament.