Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors Prediction: Who Will Win 28th T20 ILT20 Match on 26th December 2025?
The Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors prediction for the 28th match of the International League T20 2025 points toward a high-stakes clash at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday, 26th December 2025. With the league phase approaching its decisive stretch, both teams enter this fixture with very different objectives. Desert Vipers have already established themselves as the most consistent side of the tournament, securing seven wins from eight matches and locking in a top-two finish. Sharjah Warriors, meanwhile, are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive and cannot afford any slip-ups at this stage.
The recent head-to-head trend strongly favors the Vipers. In their last meeting, Desert Vipers comfortably chased down a modest target of 91, underlining the gulf in form and execution between the two sides. Their balanced squad, combining disciplined bowling with deep batting resources, has allowed them to dominate opponents regardless of conditions. Sharjah Warriors, however, have shown flashes of resilience, including a pressure win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, proving they can still challenge stronger teams when key players fire.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium traditionally offers a slower surface where smart batting and precise bowling are rewarded. This could provide the Warriors with an opportunity to narrow the gap if they execute their plans well. Much will depend on their top-order stability and whether their bowlers can contain the Vipers’ explosive middle order.
From a strategic perspective, the Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors prediction hinges on momentum versus desperation. The Vipers will look to fine-tune combinations ahead of the playoffs, while the Warriors must play with urgency and clarity. Given current form, Desert Vipers start as favorites, but Sharjah Warriors will aim to draw energy from the must-win nature of this contest.
- Desert Vipers have won 7 of their last 8 ILT20 matches and are firmly placed in the top two.
- Sharjah Warriors need a win to keep their playoff qualification hopes alive.
- Recent head-to-head favors the Vipers, including a comfortable four-wicket win earlier this season.
- Sharjah’s slow surface could bring spinners and disciplined bowling into play.
Match Details
| Match | Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors, 28th T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 26th December 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah |
| Tournament | International League T20 2025 |
Team Preview
Desert Vipers Preview
Desert Vipers have been the benchmark team of ILT20 2025, delivering consistency across all departments. With seven wins from eight matches, they have already secured a top-two finish, reflecting their tactical clarity and squad depth. Whether batting first or chasing, the Vipers have adapted seamlessly to match situations.
Their batting unit has been reliable, with multiple players contributing rather than relying on a single star. Max Holden and Alex Hales have provided solid starts, allowing the middle order to build or accelerate as required. Sam Curran’s leadership has been instrumental, not only with his all-round contributions but also in managing resources smartly during crunch phases. The Vipers’ ability to chase low and medium totals with composure, as seen in their recent win over Sharjah, highlights their mental strength.
Bowling has been their biggest weapon. David Payne has emerged as a consistent wicket-taker, striking at key moments to apply pressure. The pace attack, supported by Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult, has been effective both with the new ball and at the death. Their spin options, including Qais Ahmad and Noor Ahmad, have controlled the middle overs, particularly on slower surfaces similar to Sharjah.
What sets Desert Vipers apart is their balance. They rarely lose momentum for long periods and have shown the ability to recover even from tricky positions. With qualification already secured, this match offers them a chance to maintain rhythm and test strategies ahead of the playoffs. Given their dominance so far, they will approach this fixture with confidence and intent.
Sharjah Warriors Preview
Sharjah Warriors have endured a fluctuating campaign in ILT20 2025, mixing spirited wins with heavy defeats. Currently hovering around the playoff contention zone, the Warriors enter this match knowing that only a strong performance will keep their hopes alive.
Their batting has been inconsistent, often relying on individual efforts rather than collective partnerships. James Rew has been one of the brighter spots, showing composure under pressure, while Tom Kohler-Cadmore has the ability to change games with aggressive stroke play. However, frequent middle-order collapses have prevented Sharjah from posting or chasing competitive totals consistently.
The bowling unit has shown promise, particularly through Adil Rashid’s experience and guile. Matheesha Pathirana’s pace and variations add threat, especially in the death overs, but lapses in execution have cost the team runs at crucial stages. Sharjah’s challenge will be to maintain discipline throughout the innings, especially against a deep Vipers batting lineup.
The Warriors’ recent win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders demonstrated their fighting spirit and ability to handle pressure. If they can replicate that intensity, especially in front of a supportive home crowd, they can challenge even the strongest sides. However, to upset the Vipers, Sharjah will need near-perfect execution with both bat and ball.
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squad
Desert Vipers: Sam Curran, Max Holden, Alex Hales, Dan Lawrence, Vriitya Aravind, David Payne, Khuzaima Tanveer, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson
Sharjah Warriors: James Rew, Sikandar Raza, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tim Southee, Adil Rashid, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nathan Sowter, Aayan Khan, Haider Ali, Rashid Khan
Probable Playing XI
| Desert Vipers | Sharjah Warriors |
|---|---|
| Max Holden | James Rew (WK) |
| Alex Hales | Tom Kohler-Cadmore |
| Dan Lawrence | Sikandar Raza (C) |
| Sam Curran (C) | Haider Ali |
| Vriitya Aravind (WK) | Tim Southee |
| David Payne | Adil Rashid |
| Khuzaima Tanveer | Matheesha Pathirana |
| Qais Ahmad | Dushmantha Chameera |
| Noor Ahmad | Nathan Sowter |
| Trent Boult | Aayan Khan |
| Lockie Ferguson | Rashid Khan |
Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Alex Hales, Max Holden, Tom Kohler-Cadmore |
| All-Rounders | Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza |
| Wicketkeeper | James Rew |
| Bowlers | David Payne, Adil Rashid, Trent Boult, Matheesha Pathirana |
This fantasy combination focuses on balance and consistency. Alex Hales and Max Holden are reliable top-order options who can score briskly during the powerplay. Sam Curran is a must-pick due to his dual role, contributing with both bat and ball, especially in pressure situations. Sikandar Raza adds value as an all-rounder capable of anchoring the innings or picking up key wickets.
In the bowling department, David Payne has been a consistent wicket-taker for the Vipers, while Trent Boult’s new-ball threat makes him a strong fantasy choice. Adil Rashid and Matheesha Pathirana offer variety and wicket-taking potential, particularly on the slower Sharjah surface. James Rew is included as wicketkeeper for his recent batting form and involvement behind the stumps.
Captain Choices: Sam Curran, Alex Hales
Vice-Captain Choices: Sikandar Raza, Max Holden
Players to Avoid: Tim Southee (inconsistent returns), Haider Ali (lack of form)
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match (Why ?)
Desert Vipers are the clear favorites due to their superior form, balanced squad, and consistency throughout the tournament. With seven wins from eight matches, they have dominated both strong and weaker opponents alike. Their bowling attack has been disciplined and effective, while the batting lineup has depth and adaptability. Sharjah Warriors, although capable of springing surprises, have struggled with consistency and often rely on individual brilliance rather than collective effort. Given the recent head-to-head result and current momentum, Desert Vipers hold a decisive edge going into this contest.
Pitch Report
Sharjah Cricket Stadium is known for its slow surface and shorter boundaries. While batters can score quickly once set, timing the ball early can be challenging. Spinners and bowlers with variations often find success here, especially in the middle overs. A first-innings score of around 140–150 is considered competitive.
Weather Report
The weather in Sharjah is expected to be clear and dry on match day. Temperatures will remain warm, with no rain forecast, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the evening.
Broadcast Details
The Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors match will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode.
Toss Prediction
Teams winning the toss may prefer to bowl first at Sharjah. Chasing under lights has been slightly easier, especially with dew playing a role in the second innings.
Score Prediction
- If Desert Vipers bat first: 139+
- If Sharjah Warriors bat first: 135+
A closely fought contest is expected, but Desert Vipers are likely to defend or chase these totals with composure.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Alex Hales is the most probable top scorer for Desert Vipers, given his ability to dominate bowlers in the powerplay. Max Holden is another strong batting option. For Sharjah Warriors, James Rew remains their most reliable batter under pressure.
In bowling, David Payne is expected to be the standout performer for the Vipers, while Trent Boult’s swing with the new ball could prove decisive. Adil Rashid will be Sharjah’s key wicket-taking option, particularly against right-handed batters.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Considering form, squad balance, and recent results, Desert Vipers are well placed to continue their dominance. Sharjah Warriors may compete strongly, but sustaining pressure across 20 overs remains a challenge.
Our Prediction: Desert Vipers will win the 28th T20 match of ILT20 2025.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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