The Desert Vipers created history by winning their first ILT20 title after defeating MI Emirates by 46 runs in the grand final at the Dubai International Stadium on January 4, 2026. Sam Curran’s Vipers sealed a memorable triumph and took home the USD 700,000 prize money.
Batting first, the Vipers posted a strong total of 182 for four. Fakhar Zaman (20) and Jason Roy (11) provided a quick start. Curran then played a captain’s knock, remaining unbeaten on 74 off 51 balls. His innings included eight boundaries and two sixes at a strike rate of 145.09. Max Holden added a solid 41, while Dan Lawrence provided the finishing touch with 23.
For MI Emirates, Fazalhaq Farooqi picked up two crucial wickets, while Arafat Gul claimed one.
In reply, MI Emirates struggled after Naseem Shah struck early, removing Andre Fletcher (10) and Tom Banton (7). Muhammad Waseem (26), Shakib Al Hasan (36) and captain Kieron Pollard (28) attempted to fight back but failed to get support from the rest of the batting line-up.
Naseem, along with David Payne, picked up three wickets each for the Vipers. Usman Tariq and Khuzaima Tanveer also claimed two wickets apiece. Their collective effort helped the Vipers bowl out MI Emirates for just 136 runs in 18.3 overs to seal their maiden title.
During the post-match presentation, Vipers captain Curran, who was adjudged Player of the Match, reflected on the win and said, “I was nervous coming into the final. The players, management and owners have been outstanding, and it’s going to be a big celebration tonight. Nerves are natural, and I think they help. You never quite know how the pitch will play, and losing Gous to injury in the warm-up tested us, but it showed the strength of our group and our setup. MI are a quality side, but over the course of the season we’ve been the most consistent team, and I think we deserved the trophy.”
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