Dubai Capitals & Desert Vipers Set for DP World ILT20 Final

Dubai Capitals & Desert Vipers Set for DP World ILT20 Final

A thrilling conclusion awaits as Dubai Capitals (DC) and Desert Vipers (DV) go head-to-head in the DP World ILT20 Season 3 final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, February 9. With a prize pool exceeding $1 million and both teams eyeing their first-ever ILT20 title, fans can expect an electrifying contest.

DC comes into the final with a psychological edge, having won their last five encounters against the Vipers. However, DV has been one of the most dominant sides this season, securing their playoff berth with four straight wins. After a minor late-season slump, they roared back in Qualifier 2, crushing Sharjah Warriorz by seven wickets to book their place in the final.

Captain’s Call: DC vs DV Final Build-Up

Ahead of the high-stakes final, DV captain Lockie Ferguson, who will miss the match due to injury, emphasized the team’s camaraderie and readiness for the big day:

"From day one, we’ve enjoyed being part of this squad, and that unity has shown on the field. DC is a strong team, and it’s fitting that the top two sides are in the final. There’s always pressure in a final, but it’s a huge opportunity. The boys are ready!"

On the other side, DC captain Sam Billings expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to step up under pressure:

"Confidence is high as we’ve had a great run. Different players have contributed throughout, especially Shai Hope and Gulbadin Naib, who have been outstanding. We’re looking forward to the final and putting on a great show for the fans."

Star Performers to Watch

Desert Vipers:

Alex Hales (400 runs, 3 fifties) has been their batting linchpin.

Sam Curran (325 runs at 46.42) provides balance in the middle order.

Mohammad Amir & Wanindu Hasaranga (12 wickets each) have led the bowling attack.

Lockie Ferguson (11 wickets) has been a key contributor but will miss the final.

Dubai Capitals:

Shai Hope (484 runs) is a contender for the Green Belt (most runs).

Gulbadin Naib (376 runs, 11 wickets) has been their MVP this season.

Dushmantha Chameera (13 wickets) leads their pace attack.

DC has also won five of their last six games, gaining momentum at the right time. Naib, in particular, has been in red-hot form, scoring three consecutive half-centuries against DV.

ILT20 Final: The Road to Glory

The DP World ILT20 Season 3 final will not only determine the new champion but also decide the winners of the tournament’s signature belts:
Green Belt (most runs) – Hope (484) is just 9 runs behind leader Tom Banton (MI Emirates).
White Belt (most wickets) – Fazalhaq Farooqi (20 wickets) is currently in the lead.
Red Belt (MVP) & Blue Belt (Best UAE Player) – To be awarded post-final.

With the champions set to take home $700,000 and runners-up securing $300,000, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

A Historic Moment for ILT20

The final will be played against the stunning backdrop of the Dubai Creek, with Billings and Ferguson posing with the trophy aboard a traditional Abra. The match kicks off at 6:00 PM local time, and fans can expect a night filled with cricketing fireworks.

Will DC continue their dominance over DV, or will the Vipers strike back and claim their maiden title? One thing is certain – cricket fans are in for a thrilling finale!