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Dubai Capitals triumphed over Desert Vipers by six wickets in a riveting contest at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, securing a much-needed win in Match 13 of the International League T20 2025. The Capitals chased down a modest target of 140 with ease, thanks to a stellar performance by Gulbadin Naib, who was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round contribution.
Desert Vipers finish at 139
After opting to bowl first, the Capitals’ bowlers made an immediate impact, restricting the Desert Vipers to a below-par total of 139. The Vipers struggled to build partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Alex Hales top-scored with 34 runs off 31 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes. Sherfane Rutherford contributed a valuable 27 off 24, including one four and three sixes, while Dan Lawrence chipped in with 24 runs. However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to capitalize, with Sam Curran, Azam Khan and Tanish Suri unable to make significant contributions.
The Capitals’ bowlers delivered a disciplined performance. Zahir Khan and Dushmantha Chameera were the standouts, taking three wickets each. Zahir Khan, though slightly expensive, broke key partnerships, while Chameera’s late strikes wrapped up the innings efficiently. Haider Ali, Obed McCoy, Sikandar Raza and Gulbadin Naib each chipped in with a wicket to keep the pressure on the Vipers.
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Gulbadin Naib takes Dubai Capitals home
The Capitals started their chase shakily, losing early wickets as Ben Dunk, Shai Hope and Khalid Shah departed cheaply. At 42/3, the chase looked precarious, but Gulbadin Naib anchored the innings with a scintillating knock.
Naib smashed 78 not out off 51 balls, featuring three fours and five towering sixes, showcasing both composure and aggression. His partnership with Raza, who contributed 24 off 26, steadied the innings and took the game away from the Vipers. Najibullah Zadran provided a calm finish with 10 runs off 10. The Capitals reached the finish line in 17.4 overs with 6 wickets in hand.
For the Vipers, Lockie Ferguson was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets for 29 runs in his four overs. Mohammad Amir bowled with precision, taking one wicket for 31 runs in 3.4 overs. Despite their efforts, the total proved too small to defend.
Dubai Capitals won by 6 wickets
Scorecard: https://t.co/yXvHtuIZTf#cricket #DVvDC #ILT20 pic.twitter.com/7AWpFxybWE
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 21, 2025
