Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Prediction: Who Will Win Eliminator T20 ILT20 Match on 1st January 2025?
The Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction takes center stage as the International League T20 2025 enters the knockout phase with a high-voltage Eliminator clash. Scheduled for Thursday, 1st January 2025, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this match is a do-or-die encounter where the winner advances to Qualifier 2, while the loser bows out of the tournament. Pressure, intensity, and tactical clarity will define every over of this contest.
Dubai Capitals, the defending champions, finished third in the league stage after a mixed campaign that saw them win five of their ten matches. While they showed resilience with three successful defenses and two solid chases, inconsistency with the bat—especially in their final league match against MI Emirates—prevented them from finishing in the top two. However, their impeccable head-to-head record against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders provides them with a significant psychological edge heading into this Eliminator.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, meanwhile, arrive with momentum firmly on their side. Their qualification was sealed by a dominant must-win victory over Gulf Giants, highlighted by Michael Pepper’s commanding 83 and a sensational all-round display from Andre Russell. That win not only boosted confidence but also showcased ADKR’s ability to deliver under extreme pressure—an essential trait in knockout cricket.
The Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction also hinges on conditions at Dubai. The surface generally offers balanced assistance, rewarding teams that combine smart batting with disciplined bowling. Scores in the 160–170 range are often competitive, but chasing sides have enjoyed success under lights.
With history favoring Dubai Capitals and current momentum backing Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, this Eliminator promises a gripping battle where experience meets explosiveness, and execution under pressure will decide who stays alive in ILT20 2025.
- Dubai Capitals are unbeaten against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in ILT20 history
- Abu Dhabi Knight Riders enter the Eliminator after a dominant must-win victory
- Dubai International Stadium favors disciplined bowling and calculated batting
- Knockout pressure makes experience and all-rounders decisive
Match Details
| Match | Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Eliminator |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 1 January 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium |
| Tournament | International League T20 2025 |
Team Preview
Dubai Capitals Preview
Dubai Capitals enter the Eliminator carrying the weight of expectation as defending champions. Their league-stage campaign was solid rather than spectacular, but crucial wins at the right moments ensured a top-three finish. Despite a disappointing final group match against MI Emirates—where they were restricted to 122—the Capitals remain one of the most balanced sides in the competition.
At the top, Shayan Jahangir and Sediqullah Atal have provided steady starts, with Jahangir emerging as one of the tournament’s standout batters. He has accumulated over 300 runs this season, including a dramatic 99 against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders earlier. Jordan Cox has been the backbone of the batting lineup, leading the run charts for Dubai with 311 runs at a strike rate close to 125. His ability to anchor the innings makes him invaluable in pressure games.
The middle order adds explosive potential. Rovman Powell has been devastating, scoring at nearly 160 and capable of changing the game in a few overs. Mohammad Nabi brings vital all-round balance, contributing both economical spin and crucial runs, while James Neesham offers power-hitting depth, even though his batting returns this season have been limited.
Bowling remains Dubai Capitals’ strongest suit. Waqar Salamkheil has been outstanding, picking up 17 wickets and consistently breaking partnerships. Mustafizur Rahman’s variations make him a threat in the death overs, while Haider Ali has been remarkably economical, controlling the run flow through the middle phases. This well-rounded attack makes Dubai particularly dangerous in knockout scenarios.
Key Players: Jordan Cox, Rovman Powell, Waqar Salamkheil
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Preview
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have scripted a strong comeback to reach the Eliminator, peaking at the right time. Their must-win victory over Gulf Giants highlighted the depth and firepower in their squad, especially their ability to dominate under pressure.
The opening combination of Phil Salt and Michael Pepper has added aggression at the top. Pepper’s 83 in the previous match was a statement innings, while Salt’s consistency throughout the season has ensured quick starts. Alex Hales remains an experienced alternative at the top, capable of stepping in if required.
The middle order is packed with match-winners. Liam Livingstone has been ADKR’s most impactful batter, combining power and composure. Alishan Sharafu and Sherfane Rutherford provide stability, while Andre Russell remains the ultimate game-changer. Russell’s all-round contribution—over 150 runs at a strike rate above 160 and 10 wickets—makes him the biggest threat in this Eliminator.
Bowling-wise, Jason Holder has led from the front, maintaining an excellent economy while striking regularly. Ajay Kumar has been ADKR’s leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps, and Piyush Chawla’s experience adds control in the middle overs. This bowling unit gives Abu Dhabi Knight Riders the tools to challenge even strong batting lineups.
Key Players: Andre Russell, Ajay Kumar, Liam Livingstone
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Dubai Capitals:
Sediqullah Atal, Shayan Jahangir, Jordan Cox, Leus du Plooy, Rovman Powell, Mohammad Nabi, James Neesham, Waqar Salamkheil, Mustafizur Rahman, Haider Ali, Muhammad Jawadullah
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders:
Phil Salt, Alex Hales, Michael Pepper, Liam Livingstone, Alishan Sharafu, Sherfane Rutherford, Andre Russell, Jason Holder, Ajay Kumar, Piyush Chawla, Sunil Narine
Probable Playing XI
| Dubai Capitals | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders |
|---|---|
| Sediqullah Atal | Phil Salt |
| Shayan Jahangir (wk) | Alex Hales |
| Jordan Cox | Michael Pepper |
| Leus du Plooy | Liam Livingstone |
| Rovman Powell | Alishan Sharafu |
| Mohammad Nabi (c) | Sherfane Rutherford |
| James Neesham | Andre Russell |
| Waqar Salamkheil | Jason Holder (c) |
| Mustafizur Rahman | Ajay Kumar |
| Haider Ali | Piyush Chawla |
| Muhammad Jawadullah | Sunil Narine |
Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Jordan Cox |
| Batters | Shayan Jahangir, Alex Hales, Rovman Powell |
| All-rounders | Andre Russell, Mohammad Nabi, Liam Livingstone |
| Bowlers | Waqar Salamkheil, Mustafizur Rahman, Ajay Kumar, Jason Holder |
This fantasy combination focuses on multi-dimensional players who can influence the game in multiple phases. Jordan Cox is a must-pick due to his consistency and ability to bat through pressure situations. Shayan Jahangir and Alex Hales provide stability and aggression at the top, while Rovman Powell’s power-hitting makes him a high-upside selection.
The all-rounder trio of Andre Russell, Mohammad Nabi, and Liam Livingstone forms the core of this fantasy XI. Russell is the standout captaincy option due to his dual impact, Nabi offers economical overs with spin along with crucial runs, and Livingstone adds explosive batting with part-time bowling value.
Among bowlers, Waqar Salamkheil and Mustafizur Rahman are wicket-taking threats on Dubai’s surface, while Ajay Kumar and Jason Holder bring consistency and breakthroughs for ADKR. This balanced fantasy XI maximizes points across batting, bowling, and all-round contributions.
Captain: Andre Russell
Vice-Captain: Jordan Cox
Players to Avoid:
- James Neesham (poor batting form this season)
- Unmukt Chand (limited opportunities and impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Dubai Capitals enter this Eliminator as slight favorites due to their unbeaten head-to-head record against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and their superior bowling balance. Their attack, led by Waqar Salamkheil and Mustafizur Rahman, is well-suited to Dubai conditions, while the batting lineup features reliable anchors like Jordan Cox alongside explosive hitters such as Rovman Powell. In knockout games, experience matters, and Dubai’s familiarity with high-pressure scenarios gives them an edge. Although Abu Dhabi Knight Riders carry strong momentum, Dubai Capitals’ tactical depth and proven ability to handle crunch moments make them the safer pick in this contest.
Pitch Report
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium generally offers a balanced surface. Early on, pacers can extract some movement, while the pitch becomes better for batting under lights. Spinners who vary pace are effective in the middle overs. A first-innings score of 160–170 is competitive, but chasing sides have enjoyed success due to dew.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Dubai with temperatures around 22–24°C. There is no threat of rain, ensuring ideal conditions for a full 40-over contest.
Broadcast Details
The Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Eliminator will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first, considering dew and the chasing advantage at Dubai. Dubai Capitals are predicted to win the toss.
Score Prediction
- If Dubai Capitals bat first: 160–170
- If Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bat first: 145–155
A score above 165 could prove match-winning in this Eliminator.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Jordan Cox is the most likely top scorer for Dubai Capitals, given his consistency and temperament in pressure games. Rovman Powell is another batter capable of changing the match rapidly. For Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Liam Livingstone and Michael Pepper are strong candidates to deliver impactful knocks.
With the ball, Waqar Salamkheil remains Dubai’s biggest wicket-taking threat, especially in the middle overs. Mustafizur Rahman’s cutters could be decisive at the death. For ADKR, Ajay Kumar’s strike rate with the ball and Jason Holder’s discipline make them the key bowlers to watch.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on the Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction, Dubai Capitals are expected to edge this Eliminator. Their unbeaten record against ADKR, superior bowling depth, and experience in knockout matches give them a narrow but decisive advantage.
Predicted Winner: Dubai Capitals
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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