The first match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26 season is underway at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with Desert Vipers winning the toss and opting to bowl first.
Toss Update
Desert Vipers captain Sam Curran has chosen to field first, saying the team is unsure how the pitch will behave early on. He also shared that Lockie Ferguson is “travelling really well” and could be available from the next game.
Teams & Playing XIs
Desert Vipers (Playing XI)
Fakhar Zaman, Andries Gous (wk), Vriitya Aravind, Dan Lawrence, Shimron Hetmyer, Hasan Nawaz, Sam Curran (c), Noor Ahmad, Khuzaima Tanveer, David Payne, Naseem Shah
Dubai Capitals (Playing XI)
Sediqullah Atal, Shayan Jahangir (wk), Jordan Cox, Rovman Powell, Dasun Shanaka (c), Mohammad Nabi, David Willey, Gulbadin Naib, Haider Ali, Waqar Salamkheil, Muhammad Jawadullah
Captain Speaks
Dasun Shanaka | Dubai Capitals captain:
“Last season also we started by batting first but crossed the line in the end. Hopefully we do the same this time around. I really enjoy this tournament and always try to give my best.”
Sam Curran | Desert Vipers captain:
“We’re going to bowl first. Not sure what the pitch will do. Lockie is travelling well with minimal damage—hopefully he plays next game. We’ve had good training sessions.”
Match Status
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Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
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Start Time: 8:00 PM Local
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Opening ceremony is underway
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Desert Vipers opt to field
