Curran steers Desert Vipers to maiden ILT20 glory as Sam Curran inspires a dominant 46-run win over MI Emirates in the DP World ILT20 final.
Curran steers Desert Vipers to maiden ILT20 glory after a commanding all-round performance from captain Sam Curran powered the Desert Vipers to their first-ever DP World ILT20 title. The Vipers defeated MI Emirates by 46 runs in front of a packed Dubai International Stadium on Sunday night.
Sam Curran leads from the front in ILT20 final
Leading by example, Sam Curran smashed an unbeaten 74 off 51 balls, striking eight fours and two sixes to anchor the Desert Vipers’ innings. He received valuable support from Max Holden, who contributed 41 off 32 balls, while Dan Lawrence added late momentum with a brisk 23 off 15.
After being put under pressure early by Fazalhaq Farooqi, Curran counter-attacked during the powerplay, ensuring the Vipers reached 59 for 2. A crucial 89-run partnership between Curran and Holden stabilised the innings and set the platform for a strong finish.
The Desert Vipers eventually posted a formidable total of 182 for 4, a score that proved beyond MI Emirates on the night.
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Desert Vipers’ bowlers seal historic title
Defending 183, Desert Vipers struck early through Naseem Shah, who removed Andre Fletcher and Tom Banton to dent MI Emirates’ chase. Khuzaima Tanveer then dismissed Muhammad Waseem, leaving the Emirates three wickets down inside the powerplay.
Shakib Al Hasan and Kieron Pollard attempted a recovery, but Usman Tariq delivered the turning point by removing Shakib, pushing the required rate out of reach. Naseem returned to dismiss Pollard before David Payne ripped through the lower order with a three-wicket burst.
MI Emirates were bowled out for 136 in 18.3 overs, sealing a historic maiden ILT20 triumph for the Desert Vipers.
Awards and tournament highlights
Sam Curran capped off a remarkable season by claiming both the Red Belt (Most Valuable Player) and the Green Belt (Best Batter). He finished the tournament with 397 runs, three half-centuries, seven wickets, and 10 catches.
The White Belt for Best Bowler was awarded to Waqar Salamkheil of Dubai Capitals with 18 wickets, while Muhammad Waseem claimed the Blue Belt for Best UAE Player for the fourth consecutive season.
This final followed the dramatic Eliminator win by Abu Dhabi Knight Riders earlier in the playoffs.
Narine, Pepper Power Abu Dhabi Knight Riders to Eliminator Win
Brief Scores
Desert Vipers 182/4 in 20 overs (Sam Curran 74*, Max Holden 41; Fazalhaq Farooqi 2-33)
MI Emirates 136 all out in 18.3 overs (Shakib Al Hasan 36, Kieron Pollard 28; Naseem Shah 3-18, David Payne 3-42)
Desert Vipers won by 46 runs
