Published: December 14, 2025 at 4:48 am
Sunday’s double-header in the DP World ILT20 Season 4 promises two blockbuster contests that could significantly shape the points table, with high-stakes action across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. MI Emirates face Sharjah Warriorz in the afternoon clash, with Emirates looking to consolidate momentum behind a balanced batting and bowling unit, while the Warriorz seek a turnaround driven by experienced match-winners. Under the lights, Desert Vipers take on Dubai Capitals in a marquee evening fixture, as the in-form Vipers aim to extend their strong run against a Capitals side buoyed by a dominant recent victory and proven big-match pedigree.
Desert Vipers have been one of the standout sides in Season 4. The team has maintained strong form and are spearheading the league. Their batting has been anchored by England’s Sam Curran and Dan Lawrence, while the bowling attack is led by Khuzaima Tanveer, Noor Ahmad and David Payne, combining pace and spin effectively. The Vipers had also started the season by defeating Dubai Capitals, breaking a previous losing streak between the two franchises.
Hence, they will look to continue their momentum at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where intelligent bowling and consistent performances have underpinned their success so far. It will be quite a clash as Dubai Capitals enter this encounter buoyed by a commanding 83-run win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, boosted by a dominant innings from Rovman Powell that lifted the side in their recent outing. Powell and Jordan Cox have been key contributors with the bat this season for the team, while left-arm wrist-spinner Waqar Salamkheil has led the bowling efforts with notable wicket returns.
Historically, the Capitals have enjoyed success against the Vipers, including a title-clinching win in the 2024-25 final, demonstrating their ability to perform in high-pressure matches. With both teams eager to assert themselves, the Capitals will aim to challenge the Vipers’ run at the top of the table under the lights in Dubai.
MI Emirates look to maintain momentum
Jonny Bairstow is MI Emirates mainstay with the bat
MI Emirates head into Match 14 with a mixed campaign so far in the DP World ILT20 Season 4, sitting competitively on the points table after winning two of their first four matches. Their batting has been driven by players like Jonny Bairstow and Muhammad Waseem, while bowlers such as Allah Ghazanfar and Fazalhaq Farooqi have provided crucial breakthroughs. With both bat and ball showing match-winning potential, Emirates will be keen to maintain momentum and build consistency at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Sharjah Warriorz have struggled for form this season, finding it tough to register wins and sit lower in the standings compared with some rivals. Key performers like Tim David and Sikandar Raza have been among their leading batters, and Adil Rashid has been their standout bowler with an impressive wicket tally. Warriorz have shown they can compete, including victories over Emirates in previous seasons, which adds an unpredictable edge to this fixture. A strong all-round performance will be vital if they are to turn their campaign around and upset Emirates in Abu Dhabi.
Cricket fans can watch this action-packed tournament on ‘Z’s linear TV channels, OTT platform Zee 5 in India, with Zee 5 Hindi offering free-to-view streaming as the exclusive digital partner. Additionally, enthusiasts across India can catch the LIVE action exclusively on & Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai – SD, Zee Cinemalu and OTT platform Zee 5.
The fourth season of the DP World ILT20 runs from December 2 to January 4, 2026. All matches will be played across three venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriorz.
