Sharjah Cricket Stadium Pitch Report For DV vs SWR ILT20 2025 Qualifier 2 Match

Soumyajit Dutta

Sharjah Cricket Stadium will host the Qualifier 2 of ILT20 2025 [Source: @ghosh_annesha/X.com]Sharjah Cricket Stadium will host the Qualifier 2 of ILT20 2025 [Source: @ghosh_annesha/X.com]

The stage is set for the big ticket, Qualifier 2, event of ILT20 2025. The match is going to be played between Sharjah Warriorz and Desert Vipers. The highly anticipated match is staged on February 7 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. Fans can tune in to catch the live action, set to begin at 8:00 PM IST.

Desert Vipers

Losing in Qualifier 1 against the Dubai Capitals, the Desert Vipers are now suffering a dent in their confidence. However, they are gearing up for an exciting encounter in Qualifier 2. The Vipers, led by the dynamic Lockie Ferguson, boast a well-balanced squad with explosive batters like Alex Hales and Daniel Lawrence, alongside all-rounders Sam Curran and Sherfane Rutherford. 

Their bowling attack, featuring the likes of Mohammad Amir and Wanindu Hasaranga, is capable of wreaking havoc. With the experience of Rahmanullah Gurbaz behind the stumps and a strong leadership core, Desert Vipers will look to book their tickets for the finale.

Sharjah Warriorz

Sharjah Warriorz will face Desert Vipers in Qualifier 2 of the ILT20 2025 after their impressive 6-wicket win over MI Emirates. In a high-stakes clash, the Warriorz, who opted to bowl first, restricted MI Emirates to 146/8, thanks to a superb bowling display led by Tim Southee (2/26). Chasing a modest target, Warriorz set off aggressively, with Johnson Charles smashing 36 runs from 20 balls. 

Despite a brief collapse, Tim Seifert's calm 40* from 20 balls guided his team to victory with 7 balls to spare. Now, they look to carry their momentum into the upcoming encounter against Desert Vipers. 

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Stats And Records In ILT20 2025

Criterion
Data
Matches Played7
Matches Won Batting 1st0
Matches Won Bowling 1st7
Average 1st Innings Score166
Average 2nd Innings Score168

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The Sharjah Cricket Stadium continues to solidify its reputation as a haven for batters in the ongoing ILT20 2025 tournament. With its short boundaries and flat pitch, the venue has seen an impressive average first-innings score of approximately 166, making high-scoring matches the norm.

Fast bowlers will need to adopt a strategic approach with the new ball, while spinners are tasked with maintaining tight lines to prevent runs from flowing. Interestingly, all seven matches played at this venue during the tournament have been won by teams chasing down totals. Consequently, captains are expected to opt for bowling first, setting the stage for thrilling second-innings chases.

Players To Watch Out For At Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Sam Curran

  • Sam Curran's versatility with both bat and ball makes him a key player on the Sharjah pitch. His ability to stabilize the middle order with quick runs and control the game in the latter overs with his left-arm pace will be crucial. 
  • The pitch conditions will suit his bowling, especially in the death overs, and his experience in tight situations adds further value to Desert Vipers' lineup.

Wanindu Hasaranga

  • Wanindu Hasaranga’s skill in the middle overs will be vital on Sharjah's surface, which can favour spin. His ability to pick key wickets with his leg-spin, combined with an impressive economy rate, will help disrupt partnerships. 
  • Given the pitch’s tendency to assist spinners, Hasaranga’s control and wicket-taking ability can tilt the game in Vipers' favour.

Johnson Charles

  • Johnson Charles' explosive batting at the top will be pivotal for Sharjah on the Sharjah pitch, which tends to offer some bounce and pace. With a strike rate of 167.16, Charles is capable of taking on any attack and setting the tone early. 
  • His ability to attack the bowlers right from the start will help Sharjah gain a solid foundation in their chase or set a competitive target.