Match Preview: Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers – DP World International League 2025

Date: Tuesday, 2nd December 2025
Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
Time: 14:30 GMT (08:00 PM IST / 06:30 PM Local)

Match Context

The inaugural match of the DP World International League (ILT20) 2025-26 sets the stage for a high-stakes clash between Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers. The two teams have a storied rivalry, with Dubai Capitals dominating the last five encounters, including a 4-0 record in 2025. However, the Desert Vipers, with their explosive batting and world-class all-rounders, are not without a chance to break the trend.

This season marks the 4th edition of the tournament, and with the defending champions (Dubai Capitals) on the line, the pressure is on for both teams to make a strong opening statement.

Team Analysis

Dubai Capitals – The Defending Champions

Dubai Capitals enter as the reigning champions, having lifted the title in 2025 under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka. Their squad is a blend of experience and firepower, featuring the likes of Rovman Powell, Mohammad Nabi, and James Neesham. The team's depth in both batting and bowling makes them a balanced and dangerous side.

• Key Players:

  • Toby Albert (WK): In sensational form, averaging 45.5 in the Vitality Blast.
  • Jordan Cox (WK): A rising star with a T20 hundred under his belt.
  • Scott Currie: The pick of the Capitals' attack, with a strike rate of once every 13.4 balls.

• Strengths: Balanced squad, strong middle and lower order, and a bowling unit that can exploit the turning conditions in Dubai.

Desert Vipers – The Runners-Up

The Vipers were the most successful team in the 2024 group stage but fell short in the final. They have struggled against the Capitals in recent encounters, but their lineup is packed with big-hitters and all-rounders.

• Key Players:

  • Sam Curran: A world-class all-rounder with 1198 runs and 44 wickets in T20s.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga: A leg-spinner with 41 wickets at an average of 23.34, and a useful lower-order batter.
  • Max Holden: Explosive opener with a strike rate of 144.33.

• Strengths: A deadly top order, aggressive pace attack, and a spin-heavy bowling lineup that can exploit turning conditions.

Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)

Dubai Capitals have a commanding head-to-head record, having won all five recent meetings, including four in 2025.

Venue Insights – Dubai International Cricket Stadium

The pitch at the Dubai International Stadium is known for its initial sluggishness but tends to improve with dew, especially in the evening. Historically, batting second has been the smarter option here, with a 58.6% win percentage for chasing teams.

• Average First Innings Score: 153.62 (2025)
• Bowling Averages:
  • Fast Bowlers: 24.72
  • Spin Bowlers: 23.76
• Economy Rates:
  • Fast Bowlers: 8.39
  • Spin Bowlers: 7.07
• Wickets per Overs:
  • Powerplay: 1.73
  • Middle Overs: 2.79
  • Death Overs: 2.11

Weather Forecast

Tactical Outlook

• Dubai Capitals: Expect a balanced approach with a focus on controlling the middle overs. Their spinners will look to exploit the turning conditions, while the lower order aims to accelerate.
• Desert Vipers: Need to break the trend by posting a competitive total. Their aggressive batting should open the game, and the spin-heavy attack should trouble the Capitals' middle order.

Prediction

With the Capitals having the edge in recent form and a stronger middle order, they are slight favorites. However, the Vipers' firepower could surprise.

Prediction: Team batting second is expected to win, as has been the norm in Dubai.

Broadcast Details

• India: ZEE5
• Global: ICC.TV

Final Word

As the curtain rises on the 2025-26 edition of the DP World International League, this opener between Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers is a high-intensity match with bragging rights and points on the line. It promises fireworks, and with the T20 World Cup on the horizon, players are likely to give their all.

Catch the action at 14:30 GMT, 02 December 2025 – Dubai International Stadium.
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