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the Desert Viper started their ILT20 2025 campaign on a winning note, defeat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 7 wickets in a high-energy clash at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Knight Riders set a challenging target of 167, thanks to Phil SaltThe rare knock of 71 was not out. However, the Vipers, powered by And LawrenceAn explosive 70 off 39 balls and Sam CurranThe ‘s cover 50 not out, overhauling the target with 8 balls to spare. This win shows the depth and balance of the Vipers, who made an early mark in the tournament.
Phil Salt anchors the overall Abu Dhabi Knight Riders competition
The Knight Riders faced an uphill battle after electing to bat, as early wickets set them back. Kyle Mayers and Joe Clarke fell cheaply, leaving the team struggling at 19/2 in four overs. Salt stepped up as the savior, making a scintillating unbeaten 71 off 49 balls, with 5 fours and 4 sixes. Alishan Sharafu provided significant support to a fluent 46 in 34 before retiring hurt, and Andrew Russell added late fireworks with a blistering 30 off just 14 deliveries. Despite these contributions, the Knight Riders innings lost momentum in the death overs, as the Desert Vipers bowlers, led by Mohammad Amir (1/29) and Lockie Ferguson (1/26), limited their payment to 166/5.
Dan Lawrence’s masterclass dominates the chase
Chasing a challenging 167, the Vipers started cautiously, losing Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales early. With the score at 56/2, Lawrence came in and changed the complexion of the game. Combining power with accuracy, he hammered 70 off 39 balls, including 7 fours and 3 big sixes. Lawrence dictated the terms to the bowlers, attacking the spinners and pacers with equal authority. His partnership with Curran was instrumental in turning the tide, as they added 95 runs for the third wicket. By the time Lawrence left the 18th lead, the game was firmly in the hands of the Vipers.
also WATCH: Sam Curran wins to dismiss Michael Pepper in ILT20 2025
Sam Curran’s universal light shines
Curran showed why he is considered one of the most valuable T20 players around the world. While his bowling proved costly, conceding 48 runs in 4 overs, his impact on the field was undeniable. Curran’s crucial run-out Michael Pepper emphasizes his sharp presence, and with the bat, he plays 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 ability to maintain composure under pressure and guide the innings to a successful finish underlines his match-winning credentials.
The Knight Riders face tough lessons against the Desert Vipers
The Knight Riders will regret the missed opportunities in both departments. While Phil Salt and Russell shined with the bat, the rest of the batting lineup faltered, leaving precious runs on the table. Their bowlers, barring Sunil Narine (1/29), struggling for control, with Ali Khan leaking 49 runs in 3.4 overs. In contrast, the Vipers displayed a balanced team effort, combining disciplined bowling with calculated batting. This win gives the Vipers early momentum in the tournament, while the Knight Riders need to quickly address their shortcomings to remain competitive in the ILT20 2025.
2️⃣ points to @TheDesertVipers kitty!
Courtesy of the handsome knockers from #DanLawrence & #SamCurranvisitors chase the target at a canter. ✌️#ADKRvDV @DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/JhCQJpyLiv
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 12, 2025
