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The Gulf Giants are set to clash with the Desert Vipers in Match 5 of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on January 14. This matchup promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams look to establish their positions early in the tournament.
The Giants are coming off a disappointing start to their season, having lost their opening match against Sharjah Warriorz by 7 wickets, where they failed to defend a total of 175 runs. Captain James Vince, who was instrumental last season with 356 runs, will need to lead from the front again. Key players like Shimron Hetmyer and Adam Lyth are expected to provide stability and firepower in the batting lineup. On the bowling side, Mark Adair and Blessing Muzarabani showcased their skills by taking two wickets each in their last game, and they will be crucial in containing the Vipers’ batting order.
The Vipers opened their campaign with a convincing 7-wicket victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. Dan Lawrence was the standout performer, scoring a quickfire 70 runs off 39 balls, supported by Sam Curran’s unbeaten 50. The team is bolstered by experienced players like Alex Hales and Mohammad Amir, who are expected to play pivotal roles. Their bowling attack looks strong with Lockie Ferguson leading the pace department, making them a formidable opponent for the Giants
Historically, the Vipers have had the upper hand against the Giants, winning both of their previous encounters in the ILT20. This psychological edge could play a significant role as they take to the field once again.
ILT20|2025, Match 05:
- Date and time: January 14, 02:30 pm GMT/ 08:00 pm IST/ 06:30 pm local
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is expected to offer a balanced contest for the match between Gulf Giants and Desert Vipers. Historically, spinners have thrived here, taking a majority of wickets, while pacers have had less impact. The surface is typically slow, making it challenging for batters to time their shots, especially in the afternoon heat. However, conditions improve under lights, favouring better stroke play. Teams batting second have a notable advantage, with a higher win rate when chasing totals. Overall, adapting strategies to the pitch conditions will be crucial for both teams in this encounter.
GG vs DV Dream11 Prediction Picks:
- Wicket-keepers: Jordan Cox, Azam Khan
- Batters: Alex Hales, James Vince, Shimron Hetmyer, Fakhar Zaman
- All-rounders: Sam Curran, Wanindu Hasaranga
- Bowlers: Mohammad Amir, Chris Jordan, Lockie Ferguson
GG vs DV Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:
- Choice 1: Alex Hales (c), Jordan Cox (vc)
- Choice 2: Fakhar Zaman (c), Shimron Hetmyer (vc)
Also WATCH: Shimron Hetmyer hits a massive six off Harmeet Singh in ILT20 2025
GG vs DV Dream11 Prediction Backups:
Dan Lawrence, Mark Adair, Rehan Ahmed, Tymal Mills
GG vs DV Dream11 Team for today’s match (January 14, 02:30 pm GMT):
Squads:
Gulf Giants: Aayan Afzal Khan, Blessing Muzarabani, Chris Jordan, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gerhard Erasmus, James Vince, Jordan Cox, Mohammad Zuhaib Zubair, Rehan Ahmed, and Shimron Hetmyer, Adam Lyth, Dominic Drakes, Daniel Worrall, Dushan Hemantha, Ibrahim Zadran, Mark Adair, Ollie Robinson, Tim David, Tom Curran, Tymal Mills, Muhammad Saghir Khan, Muhammad Uzair Khan, Wahidullah Zadran
Desert Vipers: Adam Hose, Alex Hales, Ali Naseer, Azam Khan, Luke Wood, Michael Jones, Mohammad Amir, Nathan Sowter, Sherfane Rutherford, Tanish Suri, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Dhruv Parashar, Fakhar Zaman, Kushal Malla, Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson, Max Holden, Sam Curran
