![Sunil Narine and Wanindu Hasaranga are among the top choices as fantasy team captains [Source: @KRxtra/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1736595222302_ADKR_DV_Fantasy_Captains.jpg?type=tq)
Sunil Narine and Wanindu Hasaranga are among the top choices as fantasy team captains [Source: @KRxtra/X.com]
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) will face Desert Vipers (DV) in the 2nd match of the ILT20 2025 season at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, January 12. The action is set to commence from 3:30 PM PM IST onwards.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) will look to bounce back from a disappointing end to last season in the ILT20 2025, where they suffered three consecutive defeats, including a heavy loss to Dubai Capitals in the Eliminator. Their batting struggles, with scores of 103, 163, and 94 in critical matches, will be a key focus as they aim to start strong in the new season.
On the other hand, Desert Vipers, who ended their 2024 campaign with a dominant six-wicket win over Sharjah Warriors, struggled with consistency, winning only 4 out of 10 matches. Despite close losses to Dubai Capitals and MI Emirates, their batting lineup, led by strong chase performances, remains a strength. Hence, Lockie Ferguson and Co. will look to capitalize on the opening match and start the season strong against ADKR.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium - Pitch Report For Match 2 of ILT20 2025
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers might enjoy some early movement with the new ball, particularly in the latter stages of the innings. While the pitch offers even pace and bounce, aiding run-scoring, the dryness of the surface could favour spinners as the game progresses.
Run-scoring can often become challenging in the latter stages of an innings at this venue. Consequently, the team winning the toss is likely to elect to bat first.
Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices For ADKR vs DV
3) Wanindu Hasaranga
Why Wanindu Hasaranga Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Economical Wicket-Taker: Wanindu Hasaranga is an excellent choice as a captain or vice-captain for fantasy teams due to his all-round abilities, especially his exceptional bowling skills. In limited-overs formats like T20Is and ODIs, Hasaranga has been a consistent performer with the ball, boasting impressive figures such as a best of 7/19 in ODIs and 4/9 in T20Is. His ability to take wickets at regular intervals, combined with his economical bowling, makes him a crucial fantasy asset.
Dependable Lower-Order Batter: In addition to his bowling, Hasaranga's batting provides added value in fantasy leagues, making him a well-rounded option. Though his batting form has been inconsistent in recent matches, his potential for quick-fire runs, as seen in his 15 runs off 9 balls against New Zealand in an ODI, can make a significant impact in T20s. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball offers a higher fantasy points ceiling, especially in formats where all-rounders are highly valued.
2) Phil Salt
Why Phil Salt Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Explosive T20 Opener: Philip Salt is a solid choice for fantasy teams due to his explosive batting ability, particularly in T20 formats. Despite a mixed start in recent matches, his aggressive style of play, as evidenced by his 43 runs off 20 balls against TCB in Abu Dhabi, makes him a valuable pick for high-scoring games. His strike rate of 165.32 in T20Is and his ability to hit boundaries and sixes consistently (103 fours and 58 sixes in T20Is) show that he can provide quick runs, which are crucial for accumulating fantasy points.
Consistent Performer: Salt has been consistent with his performances in various leagues, including the IPL and Abu Dhabi T10, where he has maintained a strike rate of over 175 and 221.82 respectively, which highlights his ability to pick on any surface and conditions. His experience in high-pressure situations, coupled with his hard-hitting style, makes him a reliable fantasy asset capable of delivering match-winning knocks.
1) Sunil Narine
Why Sunil Narine Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Mystery Spinner: Sunil Narine is an excellent choice for fantasy teams due to his exceptional consistency with the ball across various formats. His recent form in the Abu Dhabi T10 league showcases his ability to control the game, with impressive figures of 2/16 and 2/14 in recent matches. Narine has a proven track record in T20s, with an economy rate of 6.02 in T20I cricket and a remarkable 6.73 in the IPL, underlining his ability to restrict the opposition's scoring.
Part-Time Pinch Hitter: Narine has demonstrated notable batting capabilities too, where his striking ability has shone through. With a career strike rate of 113.75 in T20 cricket, including impressive performances in leagues like the IPL and CPL, he has proven to be a useful pinch hitter. There have been matches where he shone with both the ball and the bat at a high margin, hence, he will be a valuable pick as a captain in fantasy teams.
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