ILT20 Final: Desert Vipers Clinch Maiden Title After Beating MI Emirates

Dubai: Desert Vipers finally turned years of heartbreak into glory as they defeated MI Emirates by 46 runs to win their first-ever International League T20 (ILT20) title at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. After losing two finals in the league’s first three seasons, the Vipers delivered a commanding performance in the fourth edition to lift the trophy in style.

Led by captain Sam Curran, Desert Vipers posted a competitive total of 182 for 4 after being asked to bat first. Curran was the standout performer, playing a match-winning unbeaten knock of 74 runs. Batting at number four, he struck eight boundaries and two sixes in his 51-ball innings. He received solid support from Max Holden, who scored 41, as the duo added a crucial 89-run partnership off 64 balls. For MI Emirates, Fazalhaq Farooqi was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets.

In reply, MI Emirates never truly recovered after a shaky start. Mohammad Waseem provided early momentum with a quick 26 off just 12 balls, but regular wickets stalled the chase. Shakib Al Hasan top-scored with 36, while a 60-run partnership between Shakib and captain Kieron Pollard briefly raised hopes. However, the stand consumed 45 balls, increasing the pressure of the required run rate. Shakib was dismissed at 114 in the 16th over, and MI’s innings folded for 136 in the 19th over.

Desert Vipers’ bowling attack was clinical, with Naseem Shah and David Payne picking up three wickets each. Usman Tariq and Khuzhaima Tanveer chipped in with two wickets apiece, sealing a comprehensive victory.

Sam Curran was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament for his outstanding all-round performances. The defeat marked a rare final loss for the Mumbai Indians franchise, their first in a league final since the 2010 IPL, when Chennai Super Kings beat them in the title clash.

For Desert Vipers, the triumph was not just a title win, but a statement of resilience—finally rewarding years of persistence with ILT20 championship glory.