The excitement of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 continues as the Desert Vipers square off against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the 9th match of the season.
Set to take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this match is one that fans and fantasy cricket enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
With both teams boasting dynamic line-ups and standout players, the contest promises plenty of action. Will the Vipers continue their strong run, or will the Knight Riders come out on top?
In this expert prediction, we break down the key players, team strengths, and what to expect in this thrilling encounter. Let’s dive into the analysis and see who is likely to emerge victorious in this exciting ILT20 clash.
ILT20(2025): Vipers vs Knight Riders 9th Match Info
- Match: Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
- Tournament: International League T20 -2025
- Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
- Time: 3:30 PM (IST)
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Pitch Report
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch offers a true surface for fast bowlers initially, with good pace and bounce.
As the game progresses, it slows down, making spinners increasingly influential in the middle overs. Teams chasing under lights often have the upper hand, especially with the dew factor coming into play.
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch offers a true surface for fast bowlers initially, with good pace and bounce. As the game progresses, it slows down, making spinners increasingly influential in the middle overs. Teams chasing under lights often have the upper hand, especially with the dew factor coming into play.
— Ravi Shastri, Former Indian Cricketer and Commentator.
ILT20 Statistics at Dubai International Cricket Stadium:
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Average First Innings Score | 160-170 runs |
| Highest Team Total | 210/4 (MI vs Gulf , 2024) |
| Lowest Team Total | 109 all out ( Knight Riders vs Vipers, 2024) |
| Chasing Record | Teams chasing have a higher success rate due to dew and better batting conditions in the second innings |
| Top Run Scorers | Shai Hope (Dubai Capitals), Nicholas Pooran (MI Emirates) |
| Top Wicket Takers | Fazalhaq Farooqi (MI Emirates), Lockie Ferguson (Desert Vipers) |
Weather Forecast
The weather forecast for Dubai on January 18, 2025, is partly sunny and pleasant with a high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 63°F (17°C). Expect breezy conditions in the afternoon, ideal for outdoor events.
Vipers vs Knight Riders Head-to-Head Stats
The Desert Vipers and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have faced each other in T20 matches on multiple occasions. Their head-to-head statistics Below:
Overall Head-to-Head Record
| Statistic | ![[object Object]](https://img1.hscicdn.com/image/upload/f_auto,t_ds_square_w_80/lsci/db/PICTURES/CMS/349600/349618.jpg){kind=small} Vipers | ![[object Object]](https://img1.hscicdn.com/image/upload/f_auto,t_ds_square_w_80/lsci/db/PICTURES/CMS/349600/349617.png){kind=small} KnightRiders |
|---|---|---|
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
| Average Runs Scored | 168.0 | 146.6 |
| Highest Score | 219 | 166 |
| Lowest Score | 135 | 108 |
Recent Matches:
- January 12, 2025: Vipers defeated Knight Riders by 7 wickets in Abu Dhabi.
- January 27, 2024: Knight Riders won by 6 wickets in Abu Dhabi.
- January 21, 2024: Knight Riders secured a 6-wicket victory in Dubai.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Form |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | L, L, L, L, W |
| Desert Vipers | L, W, W, W, W |
Knight Riders vs Vipers In-Form Players
The Desert Vipers and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders are set for an exciting match, with some players in great form who can make a big difference.
Alex Hales is known for his powerful batting, while Lockie Ferguson and Sunil Narine are skilled bowlers who can change the game for their teams.
Below are some of the key players from both teams, along with their recent performances:
Desert Vipers (DV)
| Player | Mat | R/W | Avg | SR/Eco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alex Hales | 10 | 314 Runs | 31.4 | 131.93 SR |
| Fakhar Zaman | 9 | 250 Runs | 27.77 | 125.50 SR |
| Sam Curran | 5 | 144 Runs | 72 | 117.07 SR |
| Lockie Ferguson | 8 | 15 Wickets | N/A | 8.50 Eco |
| Mohammad Amir | 8 | 13 Wickets | N/A | 7.37 Eco |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | 7 | 11 Wickets | N/A | 5.96 Eco |
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR)
| Player | Mat | R/W | Avg | SR/Eco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alishan Sharafu | 10 | 265 Runs | 29.44 | 129.26 SR |
| Michael-Kyle Pepper | 9 | 202 Runs | 22.44 | 132.89 SR |
| Philip Salt | 8 | 215 Runs | 26.87 | 140.50 SR |
| David Willey | 10 | 10 Wickets | N/A | 7.08 Eco |
| Andre Russell | 6 | 6 Wickets | N/A | 8.76 Eco |
| Sunil Narine | 10 | 9 Wickets | N/A | 7.50 Eco |
These players have consistently shown their skills, and keeping an eye on them could be crucial for determining the outcome of the match.
Players to Watch
In that match, we can expect some players to perform exceptionally well, like Alex Hales, who has been in strong recent form. Below, I’ve listed 8 players along with their recent performance stats—keep an eye on them!
| Player (Team) | Performance |
|---|---|
| Alishan Sharafu (ADKR) | 10 Matches, 265 Runs, 29.44 Avg, 129.26 SR |
| Michael Pepper (ADKR) | 9 Matches, 202 Runs, 22.44 Avg, 132.89 SR |
| Alex Hales (DV) | 10 Matches, 314 Runs, 31.4 Avg, 131.93 SR |
| Sam Curran (DV) | 5 Matches, 144 Runs, 72 Avg, 117.07 SR |
| David Willey (ADKR) | 10 Matches, 10 Wickets, 7.08 Econ, 21.6 SR |
| Andre Russell (ADKR) | 6 Matches, 6 Wickets, 8.76 Econ, 17 SR |
| Mohammad Amir (DV) | 8 Matches, 13 Wickets, 7.37 Econ, 13.84 SR |
| Wanindu Hasaranga (DV) | 7 Matches, 11 Wickets, 5.96 Econ, 14.72 SR |
Desert Vipers Predicted XI
Tanish Suri (wk), Lockie Ferguson (c), Alex Hales, Fakhar Zaman, Daniel Lawrence, Sam Curran, Sherfane Rutherford, Wanindu Hasaranga, David Payne, Mohammad Amir, Luke Wood
Knight Riders Predicted XI
Philip Salt (wk), Sunil Narine (c), Kyle Mayers, Joe Clarke, Michael-Kyle Pepper, Alishan Sharafu, Laurie Evans, Andre Russell, David Willey, Jason Holder, Roston Chase
Fantasy Cricket Picks for ILT20 (2025): Vipers vs Knight Riders
Top Fantasy Picks:
1. Alex Hales (DV)
- Role: Batsman
- Recent Form: 314 Runs in 10 matches, 31.4 Avg, 131.93 SR
- Why Pick: In excellent form, Hales has been consistent with his batting, making him a top pick.
2. Andre Russell (ADKR)
- Role: All-rounder
- Recent Form: 6 Wickets, 8.76 Econ, 17 SR
- Why Pick: Russell’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable fantasy option.
3. Wanindu Hasaranga (DV)
- Role: Bowler
- Recent Form: 11 Wickets, 5.96 Econ, 14.72 SR
- Why Pick: A top spin bowler, Hasaranga’s economy rate and wicket-taking ability make him a key fantasy pick.
4. David Willey (ADKR)
- Role: Bowler
- Recent Form: 10 Wickets, 7.08 Econ, 21.6 SR
- Why Pick: Willey has been consistent in taking wickets, making him a strong choice for your bowling lineup.
5. Alishan Sharafu (ADKR)
- Role: Batsman
- Recent Form: 265 Runs, 29.44 Avg, 129.26 SR
- Why Pick: Sharafu has been in solid batting form and can anchor innings while scoring quickly.
6. Sam Curran (DV)
- Role: All-rounder
- Recent Form: 144 Runs in 5 matches, 72 Avg, 117.07 SR
- Why Pick: With a stellar average, Curran is a strong pick for both batting and bowling contributions.
7. Mohammad Amir (DV)
- Role: Bowler
- Recent Form: 13 Wickets, 7.37 Econ, 13.84 SR
- Why Pick: Amir’s wicket-taking ability and economy rate make him a solid fantasy choice for your team.
8. Philip Salt (ADKR)
- Role: Batsman (wk)
- Recent Form: Consistent runs and a solid start to the tournament
- Why Pick: Salt is dependable at the top order and can provide quick runs in the powerplay.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks:
- Captain: Alex Hales (DV) – In great batting form, capable of scoring big.
- Vice-Captain: Andre Russell (ADKR) – A key all-rounder who contributes significantly with both bat and ball.
This combination of players from both teams brings a mix of consistency, match-winning potential, and all-round contributions for fantasy cricket.
Expert Match Prediction
While the Knight Riders are a formidable team, the Desert Vipers’ current form and balanced lineup make them slight favorites for this encounter.
Expect a tight contest, but the Desert Vipers are likely to emerge victorious in this thrilling ILT20 2025 match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Who Will Win? Desert Vipers
Scenario 1: If Desert Vipers Win the Toss and Bat First
Prediction: The Desert Vipers hold an edge if they bat first, given the Dubai International Cricket Stadium’s track record, which supports both bat and ball but favors chasing teams.
With an average first-innings score of 160-170, a target of 170-180 runs would be ideal. Alex Hales and Sam Curran’s form, combined with the Vipers’ batting depth and ability to accelerate, make them formidable. I
f they post a competitive total, bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga can capitalize on the pitch, which tends to slow down later.
Scenario 2: If Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) Win the Toss and Bowl First
Prediction: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) may struggle if they bowl first, particularly on this pitch. The Dubai pitch, especially under the lights, becomes easier to bat on in the second innings due to dew, making chasing easier.
However, they will need to limit the Vipers to a score of around 160-170 runs to stay in the game. The Knight Riders’ bowling attack, led by Andre Russell and David Willey, will be under pressure. Russell, despite his experience, has had an inconsistent economy rate of 8.76 in recent games. Their challenge will be to contain the Vipers’ aggressive batting lineup.
Scenario 3: Which Team Has the Advantage to Chase?
Prediction: Desert Vipers have a clear advantage while chasing, particularly based on their recent performances and the favorable chasing conditions in Dubai. The dew factor makes the pitch easier to bat on in the second innings, and Alex Hales‘ ability to anchor the innings and accelerate in the latter stages makes him a prime asset.
The Vipers have shown resilience in chasing down targets, with Sam Curran contributing to strong finishes. On the other hand, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders might feel the pressure chasing, as their batting has been inconsistent, and the Vipers’ bowling attack can exploit the conditions late in the innings.
[Disclaimer: The match predictions provided are based on current form, player performances, and statistical analysis. These are speculative and do not guarantee outcomes. Always consider other factors such as team strategies, weather, and match conditions before making any conclusions.]
Squads:
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Squad: Philip Salt(w), Kyle Mayers, Joe Clarke, Michael-Kyle Pepper, Alishan Sharafu, Laurie Evans, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine(c), Jason Holder, David Willey, Shahid Iqbal Bhutta, Charith Asalanka, Ali Khan, Roston Chase, Andries Gous, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Terrance Hinds, Adhitya Shetty, Sufiyan Muqeem, Ibrar Ahmad
Desert Vipers Squad: Fakhar Zaman, Alex Hales, Daniel Lawrence, Azam Khan, Sam Curran, Sherfane Rutherford, Wanindu Hasaranga, Tanish Suri(w), David Payne, Ali Naseer, Lockie Ferguson(c), Luke Wood, Adam Hose, Max Holden, Mohammad Amir, Nathan Sowter, Kushal Malla, Michael Jones, Dhruv Parashar, Khuzaima Tanveer
FAQs
What are the key factors that determine success in a match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium?
The key factors for success at Dubai International Cricket Stadium include the pitch conditions, which favor fast bowlers early on but become more spin-friendly later. The dew factor in the second innings gives chasing teams an advantage, so winning the toss and opting to bowl first can be crucial. A balanced team with depth in both batting and bowling is typically more successful here.
Who are the leading players to watch in the Desert Vipers vs Knight Riders match?
Key players to watch include Alex Hales and Sam Curran for the Desert Vipers, with Hales in excellent form with the bat. For the Knight Riders, Andre Russell, known for his all-round abilities, and David Willey, a consistent wicket-taker, will be pivotal.
What is the significance of the dew factor in the Dubai International Cricket Stadium?
The dew factor plays a crucial role in the second innings, making the pitch easier to bat on. Teams bowling first may struggle to defend a total due to the dew, which affects grip and swing for bowlers. Chasing teams often have the upper hand in such conditions.
Can the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders overcome their recent poor form?
The Knight Riders have had mixed results recently, with losses in several games. However, they have experienced players like Andre Russell and Sunil Narine who could turn the tide if they perform at their best. Their ability to adapt to the Dubai pitch conditions and execute a strong game plan will be crucial.
What is the record of Desert Vipers and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the current ILT20 season?
The Desert Vipers are in good form, having won their last four matches, while the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have had a more inconsistent run, with losses in their previous four games before their last win. This recent form gives the Vipers a slight edge heading into the match.
How do the Desert Vipers and Knight Riders’ batting lineups compare?
The Desert Vipers have a strong batting lineup with consistent performers like Alex Hales and Sam Curran. The Knight Riders, on the other hand, have Alishan Sharafu and Michael-Kyle Pepper, who have shown potential but may need support from other players to set or chase a competitive total.
Which team has a better bowling attack?
The Desert Vipers are likely to have the advantage in terms of their bowling attack, with Mohammad Amir, Lockie Ferguson, and Wanindu Hasaranga in strong form. The Knight Riders’ bowling is led by Andre Russell and David Willey, but they have been more inconsistent in recent matches.
Who are the fantasy cricket picks for this match?
Top fantasy picks include Alex Hales, Andre Russell, Wanindu Hasaranga, and David Willey due to their all-round contributions. Players like Sam Curran and Mohammad Amir also present great value, given their recent form.
What should teams focus on while batting first at Dubai International Cricket Stadium?
Teams batting first should aim for a competitive total of around 170-180 runs, considering the pitch conditions and the dew factor. It’s important to have a solid foundation in the powerplay and accelerate in the middle overs, with batters like Alex Hales and Sam Curran expected to play key roles.
How will the weather impact the match?
The weather forecast predicts pleasant, partly sunny conditions with a breeze, which will make for ideal outdoor cricketing conditions. The temperature of around 75°F (24°C) will help the players perform comfortably throughout the match.
