The Desert Vipers started their ILT20 2025 marketing campaign on a profitable word, defeating Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 7 wickets in a high-energy conflict on the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The Knight Riders set a difficult goal of 167, because of Phil Salt’s distinctive knock of 71 not out. Nonetheless, the Vipers, powered by Dan Lawrence’s explosive 70 off 39 balls and Sam Curran’s composed 50 not out, overhauled the goal with 8 balls to spare. This victory showcased the Vipers’ depth and steadiness, setting an early marker within the event.
Phil Salt anchors Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ aggressive whole
The Knight Riders confronted an uphill battle after electing to bat, as early wickets pegged them again. Kyle Mayers and Joe Clarke fell cheaply, leaving the workforce struggling at 19/2 inside 4 overs. Salt stepped up because the savior, crafting a glowing unbeaten 71 off 49 balls, that includes 5 fours and 4 sixes. Alishan Sharafu supplied important assist with a fluent 46 off 34 earlier than retiring damage, and Andre Russell added late fireworks with a blistering 30 off simply 14 deliveries. Regardless of these contributions, the Knight Riders’ innings misplaced momentum within the demise overs, as Desert Vipers’ bowlers, led by Mohammad Amir (1/29) and Lockie Ferguson (1/26), restricted their cost to 166/5.
Dan Lawrence’s masterclass dominates the chase
Chasing a difficult 167, the Vipers started cautiously, dropping Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales early. With the rating at 56/2, Lawrence walked in and adjusted the sport’s complexion. Combining energy with precision, he hammered 70 off simply 39 balls, together with 7 fours and three huge sixes. Lawrence dictated phrases to the bowlers, attacking each spinners and pacers with equal authority. His partnership with Curran was instrumental in turning the tide, as they added a match-winning 95 runs for the third wicket. By the point Lawrence departed within the 18th over, the sport was firmly within the Vipers’ grasp.
Additionally WATCH: Sam Curran hits a bulls eye to dismiss Michael Pepper within the ILT20 2025
Sam Curran’s all-round brilliance shines by means of
Curran showcased why he’s thought to be probably the most invaluable T20 gamers globally. Whereas his bowling proved costly, conceding 48 runs in 4 overs, his impression on the sphere was plain. Curran’s essential run-out of Michael Pepper highlighted his sharp presence, and with the bat, he performed a composed but aggressive knock. Anchoring the chase after Lawrence’s dismissal, Curran scored an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, punctuated by 2 boundaries and 1 six. His means to take care of calm beneath strain and information the innings to a profitable end underscored his match-winning credentials.
Knight Riders face robust classes in opposition to Desert Vipers
The Knight Riders will rue missed alternatives in each departments. Whereas Phil Salt and Russell shone with the bat, the remainder of the batting lineup faltered, leaving invaluable runs on the desk. Their bowlers, barring Sunil Narine (1/29), struggled for management, with Ali Khan leaking 49 runs in 3.4 overs. In distinction, the Vipers showcased a balanced workforce effort, combining disciplined bowling with calculated batting. This victory provides the Vipers early momentum within the event, whereas the Knight Riders should tackle their shortcomings shortly to remain aggressive in ILT20 2025.
2️⃣ factors within the @TheDesertVipers kitty!
Courtesy of good-looking knocks from #DanLawrence & #SamCurran, the guests chased down the goal in a canter. ✌️#ADKRvDV @DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/JhCQJpyLiv
— Worldwide League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 12, 2025
