NEW DELHI: A historic moment awaits in the ILT20 as the Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers prepare to face off for the Season 3 championship at the Dubai International Stadium this Sunday. The culmination of weeks of competitive cricket, featuring a prize pool surpassing USD 1 million, is set to draw to a thrilling close.
The Dubai Capitals, boasting an impressive track record, have emerged victorious in their last five encounters against the Desert Vipers.
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Despite this, the Vipers have demonstrated remarkable prowess throughout the season, securing their playoff position early with four successive wins.
Their journey to the final, however, was not without challenges, including a loss to the Capitals in Qualifier 1. Nevertheless, they rebounded strongly with a decisive seven-wicket win against the Sharjah Warriorz, confirming their spot in the championship match.
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Desert Vipers’ captain, Lockie Ferguson, sidelined by injury for the final, shared his enthusiasm for the squad’s journey and the sense of unity within the team.
“From day one we have all enjoyed being a part of the squad, and the family we have created has translated on the field. The Dubai Capitals are an exceptional team, and I think the top two teams in the competition have made it to the final,” the Kiwi stated.
“We had a fantastic game against the Capitals in Qualifier 1 but tomorrow is a final and we both start on zero. Exciting time for players to step up for their teams. Both teams line up differently, we have different skill sets. Theres always pressures in a final, it’s a big opportunity and pressure comes with opportunity. It’s been a long build up, but the boys are ready for tomorrow.”
Sam Billings, captain of the Dubai Capitals, expressed confidence in his team’s form and the diverse contributions from players like Shai Hope and Gulbadin Naib.
Billings said, “Confidence is high as we have had a good run. Different people have stepped up for us throughout the competition including star performances from Shai Hope and Gulbadin Naib so we are looking forward to tomorrow. The atmosphere last year was phenomenal at the final, as the love for cricket is very strong in the region and hopefully tomorrow both teams can put on a great show.”
Key players for the Vipers, such as Alex Hales and Sam Curran, have made notable contributions with the bat, while their bowling lineup will miss Wanindu Hasaranga and Lockie Ferguson in the final.
The Capitals, on the other hand, have seen a resurgence in form, led by standout performances from Naib and Hope, propelling them towards their first title.
The tournament’s prize pool features USD 700,000 for the champions and USD 300,000 for the runners-up. Additionally, individual excellence will be celebrated with signature belts and cash prizes for top performers in various categories, including the highest run-scorer and leading wicket-taker.
As the ILT20 approaches its grand finale, both teams are poised to deliver a memorable showdown, encapsulating the spirit and competitiveness of the tournament.
