Dubai: (PNP) The Desert Vipers etched their name into DP World ILT20 history, securing their maiden championship with a comprehensive 46-run victory over MI Emirates in the final at a packed Dubai International Stadium.
Led by an inspirational performance from captain Sam Curran, the Vipers posted a formidable total of 182 for 4 before bundling out MI Emirates for 136 in 18.3 overs. The triumph earned the Desert Vipers a prize purse of USD 700,000 along with the prestigious Black Belt, while runners-up MI Emirates received USD 300,000.
Curran starred with an unbeaten 74 off 51 deliveries, striking eight fours and two sixes in a commanding knock that anchored the Vipers’ innings. He was well supported by Max Holden, who scored a fluent 41 off 32 balls, while Dan Lawrence provided late impetus with 23 off 15. Fazalhaq Farooqi was the pick of the MI Emirates bowlers with figures of 2 for 33.
In response, the Vipers’ bowlers produced a disciplined and aggressive display. Naseem Shah led the charge with an outstanding spell of 3 for 18, while David Payne (3 for 42), Usman Tariq (2 for 20), and Khuzaima Tanveer (2 for 22) ensured MI Emirates never gained momentum in the chase.
The final was preceded by a spectacular pre-match show featuring fireworks and a drone display, creating a carnival-like atmosphere and setting the tone for the season’s showpiece event.
Curran capped off a remarkable tournament by claiming both the Red Belt (Most Valuable Player) and the Green Belt (Best Batter). He finished the season with 397 runs, including three half-centuries, and also contributed with seven wickets and 10 catches.
Chasing 183, MI Emirates were rocked early as Naseem Shah removed Andre Fletcher and Tom Banton inside the powerplay. Although Shakib Al Hasan (36 off 27) and Kieron Pollard (28 off 27) attempted to revive the innings with a 50-run partnership, Usman Tariq’s breakthrough dismissal of Shakib proved decisive. Payne then ripped through the lower order to seal the contest with nine balls to spare.
Earlier, the Vipers recovered strongly after losing both openers in quick succession, with Curran and Holden stitching together a crucial 89-run partnership. Curran brought up his half-century off just 39 balls and finished the innings with a flourish to put his side firmly in control.
Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Curran said:
“I was nervous coming into the final, but the players, management and owners have been outstanding. Losing Gous to injury tested us, but it showed the strength of our group. We’ve been the most consistent team this season, and I think we deserved the trophy.”
MI Emirates captain Kieron Pollard admitted his side fell short on the night:
“In a final, small moments matter. We didn’t start sharply enough in the field, and losing early wickets hurt us. The Vipers deserved to win, but overall it’s been a fantastic tournament for us.”
The White Belt (Best Bowler) of DP World ILT20 Season 4 was awarded to Waqar Salamkheil of Dubai Capitals for finishing with 18 wickets, while MI Emirates’ Muhammad Waseem claimed the Blue Belt for Best UAE Player for the fourth consecutive season after scoring 370 runs.
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