ABU DHABI: In a nail-biting finish, Desert Vipers triumphed over MI Emirates by one run in the 9th match of the International League T20 at Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
The match, which was a thrilling contest from start to finish, saw the Vipers set a target of 160 after posting 159/4 in their allotted 20 overs.
Fakhar Zaman top-scored for the Vipers with 35 runs off 31 balls, while Max Holden contributed a solid 42 off 37 balls.
Despite a valiant effort from MI Emirates, led by Tom Banton (34) and Nicholas Pooran (31), they fell short by just one run, finishing at 158/9.
The Vipers’ bowlers played a crucial role in the victory, with Khuzaima Tanveer and David Payne claiming two wickets each, while Lockie Ferguson and Sam Curran also contributed with key breakthroughs.
Desert Vipers maintain their unbeaten run! 🔥
Having left a few runs out in the middle with the bat, the Vipers did exceedingly well to pull things back and concoct a win in the death overs! ✨#DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket #WhereTheWorldPlays pic.twitter.com/Uy3SxXmipJ
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) December 9, 2025
The final over was particularly dramatic, with MI Emirates needing 13 runs to win, but the Vipers held their nerve, defending the target successfully.
The Vipers’ victory was evidence of their consistent performance, with notable contributions from all-rounder Dan Lawrence, who remained unbeaten on 15 off 8 balls, and the bowlers, who kept their composure under pressure.
Key Highlights
Desert Vipers won by 1 run, defending 160 against MI Emirates.
Fakhar Zaman and Max Holden were the top scorers for Vipers.
MI Emirates’ late fight fell short, with Tom Banton and Nicholas Pooran contributing.
Vipers’ bowlers, led by Khuzaima Tanveer and David Payne, held their ground in the final stages.
The match saw intense bowling performances, with the Emirates’ batsmen falling just short in their chase.
The win propelled Desert Vipers to the top of the table with their fourth consecutive victory.
