Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report [Source: @ragav_x/x.com]
It’s all set for a high-octane clash at the Dubai International Stadium as Desert Vipers lock horns with Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in Match 9 of the International League T20 2025 on Saturday, January 18. Both teams are brimming with confidence after recent wins, making this a must-watch contest.
Desert Vipers
Desert Vipers are turning heads this season with their unbeaten run. Having played three matches, they have won all and have consolidated their position as one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
In their last match, the Vipers proved their mettle by chasing down 160 against MI Emirates in a nail-biting finish. Lockie Ferguson was lethal with the ball as he snagged two crucial wickets, while Fakhar Zaman starred with the bat with a brilliant 67. With form on their side, the Vipers will aim to keep their winning streak intact and make it four in four.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders had a dismal start to the season but bounced back strongly in their last outing, defeating Sharjah Warriorz by 30 runs. Their batting unit put together a decent 159/5, with contributions from Kyle Mayers, Joe Clarke, Laurie Evans, Alishan Sharafu, and Andre Russell providing depth and firepower.
Their bowlers were the real game-changers with Jason Holder being the pick of the bowlers with a sensational four-wicket haul. David Willey and Kyle Mayers supported him ably by picking three and two wickets respectively. Riding on this newfound momentum, the Knight Riders will look to give the high-flying Vipers a run for their money.
Ahead of the exciting clash, here's a detailed look at the pitch report:
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Stats And Records In ILT20 2025
Criterion | Data |
---|---|
Matches Played | 4 |
Matches Won Batting 1st | 1 |
Matches Won Bowling 1st | 3 |
Average 1st Innings Score | 146.2 |
Average 2nd Innings Score | 147.2 |
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The surface at Dubai International Cricket Stadium has something for everyone. Pacers find early assistance with swing and seam in the powerplay, making life difficult for the batters initially. However, as the innings progresses, the pitch flattens out, favoring batters who can settle in and capitalize.
Spinners have struggled to make a mark here with the dew factor playing a significant role in making the second innings batting-friendly. Out of the four games played so far, three have been won by chasing sides. Toss will be crucial, and captains will likely opt to bowl first to take full advantage of the conditions.
Players To Watch Out For At Dubai International Cricket Stadium
Sam Curran
- Sam Curran is making headlines with his all-round performances. With scores of 50*, 42*, and 23 in three games, he’s been the backbone of the Vipers' middle order.
- Though he hasn’t bowled much yet, Curran’s ability to deliver crucial wickets could come into play on Dubai’s surface. His adaptability and big-game temperament make him a player to watch.
Phil Salt
- Phil Salt has been a standout performer for the Knight Riders, scoring a scintillating 71* in his last game.
- With an impressive average of 73.00 and a strike rate of 130.35, Salt has shown he’s a reliable player at the top. His ability to accelerate at will could be the X-factor for the Knight Riders.
Lockie Ferguson
- Lockie Ferguson has been a nightmare for batters this season as he has consistently delivered lethal spells. With six wickets in three games and an economy of just 6.08, Ferguson is the Vipers' go-to man in crunch moments.
- His tendency to break partnerships and controlling the game’s tempo makes him a game-changer on Dubai’s track.