ILT20 2025 Match 13: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Dubai Capitals – Match Preview

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Time: 14:30 GMT | 20:00 IST | 18:30 Local Time
Tournament: International League T20 2025

Match Overview

The 13th match of the International League T20 2025 will see Abu Dhabi Knight Riders take on Dubai Capitals at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. This encounter promises to be a high-stakes clash, given the recent form of both teams and the historical dominance of the Capitals in their head-to-head record.

Team Form and Analysis

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

After a promising start to the tournament, the Knight Riders have struggled in their last three matches, ending up with just 2 points from 4 games and sitting fifth in the table. The team's top-order batters, Liam Livingstone and Alishan Sharafu, have provided crucial runs, while all-rounder Jason Holder and seamer Ajay Kumar have been consistent with the ball.

However, their inconsistency with the bat and the lack of momentum in their recent performances could prove to be a concern against a strong Dubai Capitals side.

Dubai Capitals

The Capitals, on the other hand, are in a much better position. After two initial losses, they bounced back with a win and are currently placed higher in the standings. Their explosive batting lineup, led by Rovman Powell and Jordan Cox, has been a key strength. With experienced bowlers like Mohammad Nabi, Mustafizur Rahman, and Waqar Salamkheil, the Capitals have the firepower to defend or chase any target.

Their recent win over the Knight Riders in a reverse fixture has added a psychological edge, and they look to continue that momentum in this match.

Players to Watch

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

• Liam Livingstone: A powerful middle-order batter and a handy bowler, Livingstone can change the game with his aggressive strokeplay.
• Alishan Sharafu: Has been in great form, scoring 101 runs in four games at a strike rate of 126.25.
• Ajay Kumar: The local seamer has been instrumental with the ball, picking up 6 wickets in his first four T20 games.

Dubai Capitals

• Rovman Powell: The in-form opener has been exceptional, scoring 135 runs in three games at an average of 67.5 and a strike rate of 177.63.
• Waqar Salamkheil: The left-arm spinner has been a match-winner for the Capitals, taking 7 wickets in three games at an economy of 8.00.
• Mohammad Nabi: The experienced all-rounder has been a consistent performer, contributing with both bat and ball.

Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Matches)

• Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 1 win
• Dubai Capitals: 4 wins

The last time the two teams met, the Capitals won comfortably. The only victory for the Knight Riders in this series came in February 2024.

Venue Insights – Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

• Average First Innings Score (2022–2025): 165.29
• Win Percentage (Batting First): 43.2% | Batting Second: 56.8%
• Wickets per Innings (First): 6.54 | (Second): 5.51

The pitch is generally slow to start, offering assistance to fast bowlers early on. As the match progresses, the dew factor can come into play, making it a crucial decision for the toss-winning captain.

Probable Playing XIs

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (11)

1. Alex Hales
2. Philip Salt
3. Alishan Sharafu
4. Liam Livingstone
5. Sherfane Rutherford
6. Brandon McMullen
7. Khary Pierre
8. Sunil Narine
9. Jason Holder (c)
10. George Garton
11. Ajay Kumar

Dubai Capitals (11)

1. Shayan Jahangir
2. Sediqullah Atal
3. David Willey
4. Jordan Cox
5. Rovman Powell
6. Dasun Shanaka (c)
7. Toby Albert
8. Haider Ali
9. Waqar Salamkheil (wk)
10. Mustafizur Rahman
11. Muhammad Jawadullah

Match Predictions

• Toss Winner: Dubai Capitals
• Match Winner: Dubai Capitals
• Top Batter: Rovman Powell (Dubai Capitals)
• Top Bowler: Waqar Salamkheil (Dubai Capitals)
• Player of the Match: Rovman Powell (Dubai Capitals)
• Predicted Scores:
  • Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 150+
  • Dubai Capitals: 160+

Key Match Insights

• Rovman Powell's Form: The Capitals' opener has been in sensational form and could be the difference-maker.
• Waqar Salamkheil's Spin: With the pitch offering assistance, the left-arm spinner could play a pivotal role.
• Toss Impact: Given the dew factor and the nature of the pitch, the toss could be a deciding factor in this match.
• Consistency vs. Explosiveness: The Knight Riders will need to be more consistent with the bat, while the Capitals can rely on their explosive batting and tight bowling.

Final Verdict

This match is expected to be a tight contest, but with Dubai Capitals in better form and having a strong record against the Knight Riders, they are the favorites. If Rovman Powell continues his explosive start and the Capitals' spinners exploit the conditions, they could seal a comfortable victory.

Prediction: Dubai Capitals by 8–10 runs
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