Curran’s blitz powers Desert Vipers to first ever ILT20 crown

Desert Vipers lifted their first-ever ILT20 title after a commanding 46-run victory over MI Emirates at Dubai, with skipper Sam Curran delivering a match-winning performance. The win earned the Vipers a cash prize of USD 700,000 and the prestigious Black Belt, while MI Emirates settled for USD 300,000.

Chasing 183 for victory, MI Emirates struggled against disciplined Vipers bowling. Curran led from the front with an unbeaten 74 off 51 balls , featuring eight boundaries and two sixes, steering his team to a challenging total of 182/4. Max Holden contributed 41 off 32 deliveries, while Dan Lawrence added a quick 23 off 15 balls, giving the Vipers a strong finish in the innings.

In response, MI Emirates faltered early. Naseem Shah struck in the second over, removing Andre Fletcher (10) and Tom Banton (7) as the opposition slipped to 46/3 inside six overs. Usman Tariq then dismissed Sanjay Krishnamurthi (2) in the eighth over, leaving MI Emirates under mounting pressure. Shakib Al Hasan tried to stabilize the innings with a measured 36 off 27 balls, but the Vipers’ bowlers left little room for recovery.

Kieron Pollard failed to make an impact as the side limped to 72/4 after 10 overs. Naseem Shah removed Pollard, ending any hope of a late resurgence. David Payne then cleaned up the lower order with a three-wicket haul (3/42) in the 18th over. The title was sealed when Khuzaima Tanveer bowled Muhammad Rohid (3) with nine balls to spare, sparking celebrations among the Vipers.

Curran’s outstanding season earned him both the Red Belt for Most Valuable Player and the Green Belt for Best Batter, finishing with 397 runs, three half-centuries, seven wickets, and 10 catches. The White Belt for Best Bowler went to Dubai Capitals’ Waqar Salamkheil, who topped the charts with 18 wickets.

For MI Emirates, Muhammad Waseem continued his consistent run by winning the Blue Belt for Best UAE Player for the fourth consecutive season, scoring 370 runs in Season 4. Winners of the ILT20 signature belts received USD 15,000 each.

With this triumph, Desert Vipers not only claimed their maiden ILT20 crown but also set a high benchmark for teamwork , consistency, and individual brilliance in the tournament.

Brief Scoreboard:

Desert Vipers Innings:

182/4 in 20 overs

MI Emirates Innings:

136 all out in 19.3 overs

Result:

Desert Vipers won by 46 runs