He desert vipers they started their ILT20 2025 campaign on a winning note, defeating Abu Dhabi Knights Riders by 7 wickets in a high energy clash at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The Knight Riders set a challenging target of 167, thanks to Phil SaltThe exceptional knock of 71 was not eliminated. However, the Vipers, driven by and LorenzoIt’s an explosive 70 off 39 balls and Sam CurranThe 50 players who did not come out went past the goal with 8 balls left. This win showcased the Vipers’ depth and balance, setting an early marker in the tournament.
Phil Salt leads Abu Dhabi Knight Riders competitive total
The Knight Riders faced an uphill battle after electing to bat as early wickets set them back. kyle mayers and Joe Clarke fell narrowly, leaving the team struggling at 19/2 in four overs. Salt became the savior, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 71 off 49 balls, with 5 fours and 4 sixes. Alishan Sharafu provided vital fluid support 46 of 34 before retiring injured, and Andre Russell added late fireworks with an incredible 30 off on just 14 deliveries. Despite these contributions, the Knight Riders’ innings lost momentum in the death overs, as the Desert Vipers bowlers, led by Mohamed Amir (29/1) and Lockie Ferguson (26/1), restricted his charge to 166/5.
Dan Lawrence Masterclass Masters the Chase
Chasing a challenging 167, the Vipers started cautiously, losing Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales early. With the score at 56/2, Lawrence came on and changed the tone of the game. Combining power with precision, he scored 70 off just 39 balls, including 7 fours and 3 huge sixes. Lawrence dictated conditions to the bowlers, attacking both spinners and pacers with equal authority. His partnership with Curran was instrumental in turning the tide as they added 95 winning runs for the third wicket. When Lawrence departed in the 18th over, the game was firmly in the hands of the Vipers.
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Sam Curran’s all-round brilliance shines
Curran showed why he is considered one of the most valuable T20 players in the world. While his bowling proved costly, conceding 48 runs in 4 overs, his impact on the field was undeniable. Curran’s crucial burnout michael pepper His strong presence stood out and he made a calm but aggressive hit with the bat. Anchoring the chase after Lawrence’s dismissal, Curran scored an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, punctuated by 2 boundaries and 1 six. His ability to remain calm under pressure and guide the innings to a successful end underlined his match-winning credentials.
Knight Riders face tough lessons against Desert Vipers
The Knight Riders will rue missed opportunities in both departments. While Phil Salt and Russell shone with the bat, the rest of the batting line-up faltered, leaving valuable runs on the table. Their bowlers except Sunil Narine (29/1), fought for control, with Ali Khan losing 49 runs in 3.4 overs. Instead, the Vipers showed a balanced team effort, combining disciplined bowling with calculated batting. This win gives the Vipers an early boost in the tournament, while the Knight Riders must address their shortcomings quickly to remain competitive at ILT20 2025.
2️⃣ points in the @ElDesiertoVipers boat!
Courtesy of handsome blows from #DanLawrence & #samcurranThe visitors chased the target at a canter. ✌️#ADKRvDV @DPWorldILT20 #EveryoneInCricket pic.twitter.com/JhCQJpyLiv
— International T20 League (@ILT20Official) January 12, 2025