Dubai International Cricket Stadium [Source: @HashTagCricket/X]
On Tuesday, Gulf Giants will take on Desert Vipers in the fifth league-stage match of the ongoing International League T20 (ILT20) season. The much-awaited affair is scheduled at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Desert Vipers had an outstanding start to the ILT20 2025, defeating Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by seven wickets in their tournament opener. On the contrary, Gulf Giants were pipped by Sharjah Warriors in their first game and would like to register their first win of the season.
As both teams gear up for a cracking contest, let's see how the surface at Dubai International Stadium will behave throughout the match.
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Stats And Records In ILT20 2025
Criterion | Data |
---|---|
Matches played | 2 |
Matches won batting 1st | 1 |
Matches won bowling 1st | 1 |
Average 1st innings score | 153.5 |
Average 2nd innings score | 153.5 |
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?
The surface at Dubai International Cricket Stadium might offer some seam movement to the new ball bowlers early in the powerplay. However, the track will become better for batting as the game progresses.
The could be some turn for the spinners in the middle overs, but with dew coming in, the batters will likely enjoy the conditions in the latter half of the match. So, it will be a tough ground to defend the total, and toss is expected to play a significant role. Keeping the venue's track record and dew in mind, the toss-winner will likely bowl first.
Players To Watch Out For At Dubai International Cricket Stadium
Mohammad Amir
- Pakistan's premier fast bowler Mohammad Amir looked sharp in the last game, scalping the crucial wicket of Kyle Mayers in the powerplay. He can be a threat to the Giants' vulnerable top order, thanks to his ability to make the new ball talk.
Shimron Hetmyer
- West Indies' explosive finisher Shimron Hetmyer was impactful with the bat in the previous game, slamming 36 runs at a blistering strike rate of 156.52. If the Giants lose a couple of early wickets, Hetmyer can bail them out of trouble with his scintillating stroke play.
Sam Curran
- England's renowned all-rounder Sam Curran had an off day with the ball in the last game, but he shone with the bat, scoring a magnificent fifty off 37 deliveries. So, considering his all-round prowess, we reckon he could be a key player for the Vipers in this match.
P.S: Apart from the aforementioned players, the eyes will also be on Dan Lawrence, Luke Wood, James Vince (if Giants bat second) and Blessing Muzarabani.