Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Prediction: Who Will Win Final T20 ILT20 Match on 4th January 2026?
The Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction for the ILT20 2026 Final promises a high-quality contest between the two most consistent teams of the tournament. Both sides finished in the top two during the league stage and have earned their place in the summit clash through strong, balanced performances. The final will be played at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for hosting pressure games under lights.
Desert Vipers come into this final with added confidence after defeating MI Emirates by 45 runs in Qualifier 1. That victory highlighted their batting depth and disciplined bowling, two factors that have defined their season. The Vipers have been clinical with their planning, adaptable to conditions, and consistent across departments, making them a formidable unit in knockout cricket.
MI Emirates, however, are no strangers to big occasions. They responded strongly after the Qualifier 1 defeat by beating Abu Dhabi Knight Riders convincingly in Qualifier 2. With experienced international stars and explosive match-winners, the Emirates have the firepower to turn the game around on their day. Their ability to chase totals and apply pressure through spin in the middle overs keeps them very much in contention.
As the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction builds toward a thrilling finale, expect tactical battles, big-match temperament, and fine margins to decide the champion. With conditions expected to favor a competitive first-innings total, execution under pressure will ultimately determine who lifts the ILT20 2026 trophy.
- Desert Vipers defeated MI Emirates by 45 runs in Qualifier 1
- Dubai conditions favor teams scoring 175–180 batting first
- Vipers have been the most consistent side this season
- MI Emirates rely heavily on top-order stability and spin control
- Both teams finished top two in the league stage
- A close, high-pressure final is expected
Match Details
| Match | DV vs MIE, Final – ILT20 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, 4 January 2026 |
| Time | 8:00 PM (IST) |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Competition | International League T20 |
| Live Streaming | ZEE5, FanCode |
| TV Broadcast | Zee Entertainment Network |
Team Preview
Desert Vipers Preview
Desert Vipers have been the standout team of ILT20 2026, finishing the league stage at the top with eight wins from ten matches. Their campaign has been built on consistency, clarity of roles, and calm execution in pressure moments. That structure was on full display in Qualifier 1, where they outplayed MI Emirates comprehensively to book their place in the final.
At the top of the order, Max Holden has been the backbone of the batting lineup. His ability to anchor innings while keeping the scoreboard moving has allowed others to play freely around him. Fakhar Zaman and Jason Roy provide early intent, capable of shifting momentum quickly during the powerplay. In the middle order, Andries Gous has been a revelation, particularly after his unbeaten century in the playoffs, showcasing his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks.
Sam Curran has been the glue holding the side together. As captain, he has led with maturity, contributing consistently with both bat and ball. His presence in the middle order adds stability, while his left-arm pace provides key breakthroughs at crucial stages. Dan Lawrence and Hasan Nawaz add flexibility, ensuring the Vipers bat deep and maintain pressure throughout the innings.
Bowling has been Vipers’ biggest strength. Khuzaima Tanveer and David Payne have been outstanding with the new ball and at the death, regularly striking while maintaining discipline. Naseem Shah, when used, has added pace and movement, while Usman Tariq has controlled the middle overs effectively. The collective bowling effort has ensured opposition teams rarely get easy runs.
Overall, Desert Vipers enter the final as a well-rounded, confident side with momentum, balance, and proven match-winners across departments.
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates have once again shown why they are one of the most dangerous franchises in the ILT20. Finishing second in the league stage, they bounced back strongly after the Qualifier 1 loss to secure their final berth with a dominant win in Qualifier 2. Their campaign has been marked by resilience and individual brilliance at key moments.
Muhammad Waseem has been the cornerstone of their batting. His consistency at the top has allowed MI Emirates to set or chase totals effectively. Alongside him, Andre Fletcher provides aggression, while Tom Banton has been the most reliable middle-order batter, capable of accelerating without undue risk.
Kieron Pollard’s experience in finals cannot be understated. Though he may not contribute every game, his presence alone changes opposition tactics. Romario Shepherd and Shakib Al Hasan add valuable depth, offering finishing ability and bowling options that give the captain tactical flexibility.
The bowling attack is well balanced. Allah Ghazanfar has been exceptional as a strike spinner, regularly picking up wickets in the middle overs while keeping runs in check. Fazalhaq Farooqi has led the pace attack with intelligence, particularly with his variations at the death. Zahoor Khan and other seam options provide further control.
MI Emirates will need a strong start with the bat and better discipline against the Vipers’ middle order compared to Qualifier 1. If their top order fires and spinners apply pressure, they have the tools to challenge strongly in this final.
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Desert Vipers: Fakhar Zaman, Max Holden, Jason Roy, Andries Gous, Hasan Nawaz, Sam Curran, Dan Lawrence, Sanjay Pahal, David Payne, Usman Tariq, Khuzaima Tanveer, Naseem Shah
MI Emirates: Muhammad Waseem, Andre Fletcher, Tom Banton, Kieron Pollard, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Romario Shepherd, Shakib Al Hasan, Allah Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Zahoor Khan, Muhammad Rohid Khan
Probable Playing XI
| Desert Vipers | MI Emirates |
|---|---|
| Fakhar Zaman | Muhammad Waseem |
| Max Holden | Andre Fletcher |
| Jason Roy | Tom Banton (wk) |
| Andries Gous (wk) | Kieron Pollard (c) |
| Hasan Nawaz | Sanjay Krishnamurthi |
| Sam Curran (c) | Romario Shepherd |
| Dan Lawrence | Shakib Al Hasan |
| David Payne | Allah Ghazanfar |
| Usman Tariq | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
| Khuzaima Tanveer | Zahoor Khan |
| Naseem Shah | Muhammad Rohid Khan |
Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Max Holden, Muhammad Waseem, Tom Banton |
| All-rounders | Sam Curran (C), Shakib Al Hasan (VC), Romario Shepherd |
| Bowlers | Khuzaima Tanveer, David Payne, Allah Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi |
| Wicketkeeper | Andries Gous |
For the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction, fantasy selections should prioritize consistency and all-round value. Sam Curran is an ideal captaincy choice due to his dual contributions with bat and ball, especially in high-pressure finals. Shakib Al Hasan offers similar value, making him a strong vice-captain option.
Max Holden and Muhammad Waseem are reliable top-order batters who face the most deliveries, increasing their scoring potential. Tom Banton and Andries Gous add stability and acceleration in the middle overs, making them valuable fantasy picks. Among bowlers, Khuzaima Tanveer and David Payne have been consistent wicket-takers, while Allah Ghazanfar’s control in the middle overs can yield crucial points.
Players to avoid:
- Hasan Nawaz (inconsistent returns)
- Muhammad Rohid Khan (limited fantasy impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Desert Vipers enter the ILT20 2026 final as the favorites due to their superior consistency, balance, and recent dominance over MI Emirates. Their convincing win in Qualifier 1 showcased their ability to outplay the Emirates across all phases of the game. The Vipers’ batting depth, led by Max Holden and Andries Gous, combined with Sam Curran’s leadership, provides stability under pressure. Their bowling unit has been the most disciplined in the tournament, regularly restricting strong batting lineups.
MI Emirates possess match-winners, but their reliance on individual brilliance rather than collective consistency places them slightly behind. On Dubai’s surface, Vipers’ controlled bowling and adaptable batting approach give them a clear edge.
Pitch Report
The Dubai pitch generally offers even bounce early before slowing down under lights. Batters who apply themselves can score freely in the powerplay, but spinners and cutters become effective as the match progresses. Chasing can be tricky if dew is minimal. A first-innings score of 175–180 is competitive in finals.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Dubai with temperatures around 22–24°C. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring a full 40-over contest under ideal playing conditions.
Broadcast Details
The ILT20 2026 Final will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode across India and international regions.
Toss Prediction
Teams may prefer to bat first in the final to avoid scoreboard pressure. Winning the toss and posting a competitive total could be decisive in Dubai conditions.
Score Prediction
- If Desert Vipers bat first: 170–180
- If MI Emirates bat first: 155–165
A total above 175 should strongly favor the side batting first.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman: Max Holden
Holden’s consistency and temperament make him a prime candidate to anchor the Vipers’ innings in the final. His ability to rotate strike and accelerate late is crucial in pressure games.
Probable Bowler: Khuzaima Tanveer
Tanveer’s variations and accuracy have troubled batters throughout the season. On a slowing Dubai pitch, he is likely to pick up key wickets in the middle overs.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on form, balance, and recent head-to-head dominance, the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction favors Desert Vipers. Their disciplined bowling, deeper batting lineup, and composure in knockout matches give them the edge. Our Winner: Desert Vipers Will Win the ILT20 2026 Final.
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.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricketwebs on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
