The Desert Vipers they started theirs ILT20 2025 successful campaign, defeated Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and 7 wickets in the most intense match at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Ground, Abu Dhabi. The Knight Riders set a tough target of 167, for Phil SaltA special knock of 71 did not come out. However, Vipers, with the help of It's Lawrence's blast of 70 off 39 balls is Sam CurranMade 50 not out, he added to the target with 8 balls to spare. This win showed the depth and focus of the Vipers, setting an early mark in the competition.
Phil Salt promotes the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
The Knight Riders faced an uphill battle when they chose to bat, as early wickets set them back. Kyle Mayers and Joe Clarke it fell cheaply, leaving the team struggling at 19/2 inside four overs. Salt stepped up as a saviour, making a brilliant unbeaten 71 off 49 balls, with four fours and four sixes. Alishan Sharafu provided the necessary support with 46 clear from 34 before the upset, and Andrew Russell added late hits and blistering 30 runs off just 14 deliveries. Despite these contributions, the Knight Riders' innings lost momentum at the death, as did the players of the Desert Vipers, led by Mohammad Amir (1/29) and Lockie Ferguson (1/26), reduced their charge to 166/5.
Dan Lawrence's masterclass takes care of 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 face of the game. Combining power and accuracy, he hit 70 off just 39 balls, including 7 fours and 3 massive sixes. Lawrence told the bowlers the words, attacking both the runners and the runners with equal authority. His partnership with Curran helped turn things around, as he added a match-winning 95 runs in the third match. By the time Lawrence left in the 18th hour, the game had begun to be seized by the Vipers.
Also WATCH: Sam Curran hits bull's eye to oust Michael Pepper in ILT20 2025
Sam Curran's ambient light appears
Curran showed why he is regarded as one of the most important T20 players in the world. Although his bowling was expensive, scoring 48 runs in 4 overs, his impact on the field was undeniable. Curran's critical run Michael Pepper it showed its danger, and with that strike, it knocked cruelly but fiercely. Following Lawrence's dismissal, Curran scored an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, with 2 boundaries and 1 six. His ability to remain calm under pressure and lead the innings to a successful finish proved to be a match-winner for him.
The Knight Riders face a tough course against the Desert Vipers
The Knight Riders will miss a rare opportunity in both departments. While Phil Salt and Russell shone with the bat, the rest of the batsmen failed, leaving precious runs on the table. Their plants, barriers Sunil Narine (1/29), fought for control, and Ali Khan yielding 49 runs in 3.4 overs. In contrast, the Vipers displayed a team effort, including controlled football and a number of tackles. This win gives the Vipers a strong run in the tournament, while the Knight Riders need to quickly address their weaknesses to remain competitive in the ILT20 2025.
2️⃣ point in @TheDesertVipers what!
Courtesy of handsome knocks from #DanLawrence & #SamCurranthe guests chased the target in a canter. ✌️#ADKRvDV @DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/JhCQJpyLiv
– International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 12, 2025