
The Desert Vipers achieved a historic triumph on Sunday, claiming their first DP World ILT20 title by defeating MI Emirates by a convincing 46 runs at the Dubai International Stadium. This victory marked a significant milestone for the team, particularly for Captain Sam Curran, whose stellar performance was instrumental in securing the championship.
Throughout the tournament, the Vipers exhibited remarkable consistency, having lost only two matches in the league stage. They carried this momentum into the playoffs, topping their group and showing resilience against MI Emirates, whom they defeated convincingly twice.
Batting first in the final, the Desert Vipers posted a formidable total of 182 for 4. Sam Curran was the star of the innings, managing an unbeaten 74 runs from a composed innings that included eight fours and two sixes. His innings built essential momentum for the Vipers after a solid start from Fakhar Zaman and contributions from Max Holden, who scored 41 runs.
| Player | Score |
|---|---|
| Sam Curran | 74* |
| Max Holden | 41 |
In the defense of a challenging target, the Vipers’ bowlers showcased their prowess. Naseem Shah made significant early inroads, claiming two wickets during the powerplay. As MI Emirates struggled to build partnerships, their innings collapsed to 136 all out in just 18.3 overs, highlighting the Vipers’ exceptional bowling strategy.
Curran’s impact stretched beyond the final match; he finished the tournament with 397 runs, inclusive of three half-centuries and seven wickets. His exceptional all-round skills earned him the coveted Red Belt for Most Valuable Player and the Green Belt for Best Batter, distinguishing him as a key player in the Vipers’ title run.
This title not only adds to the Vipers’ legacy but also showcases the potential of their emerging stars like Curran, who can elevate the team to new heights. The fans are excited about the future as the Vipers continue to build on this significant achievement.






