Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers Prediction: Who Will Win DC vs DV 1st T20 ILT20 Match?
The wait is over, and the International League T20 2025–26 season finally begins with a blockbuster clash between defending champions Dubai Capitals and last season’s runners-up, Desert Vipers. The Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers prediction becomes all the more fascinating given the recent history between these sides: the Capitals have completely dominated this rivalry, winning the last six meetings. As the new season begins, both teams come in with revamped squads, fresh leadership strategies, and renewed hunger to begin their campaign with a statement victory.
Dubai Capitals, under Dasun Shanaka, will rely heavily on their strong spin attack—one of the best on UAE surfaces. The side has retained several match-winning performers while adding depth with quality overseas recruits. Their strength lies in a balanced squad: stable top order, explosive middle-order hitters, and a versatile bowling lineup capable of adapting to any pitch in Dubai.
Desert Vipers, now led by Lockie Ferguson, enter this fixture with a point to prove. They had a strong league phase last season but struggled in high-pressure games against the Capitals. The Vipers boast a powerful batting unit and a well-rounded bowling attack, but their biggest challenge remains breaking the psychological barrier of repeated losses to the same opponent.
With both sides stacked with international talent, the Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers prediction points toward a highly competitive start to the season. However, based on squad balance, experience, and proven dominance, Dubai Capitals head into this opener as slight favourites.
- Dubai Capitals have won the last six matches against Desert Vipers.
- Capitals hold the spin advantage on Dubai’s slow surfaces.
- Vipers have lost their last two games at this venue.
- A competitive opener expected, but Capitals enter as favourites.
Match Details
| Match | Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers, 1st T20 – ILT20 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 2 December 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM Local |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Tournament | ILT20 2025–26 |
Dubai Capitals Team Preview
Defending champions Dubai Capitals enter the new season with a mixture of continuity and refreshing upgrades. Under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka, the Capitals head into this match confident of extending their unbeaten run against the Vipers. Their squad is built around multi-dimensional all-rounders and clever bowlers, a structure that proved highly successful last season.
The new opening combination of Sediquallah Atal and Leus du Plooy looks promising. Atal brings power-hitting capabilities, while du Plooy adds finesse and rotation of strike. Gulbadin Naib at No. 3 offers much-needed stability; he has been one of the most reliable performers across global leagues, often playing both anchor and aggressor roles.
In the middle order, the Capitals boast immense firepower. Rovman Powell, Jordan Cox, and Shanaka combine experience with explosiveness, providing the perfect finishing touch. James Neesham and Mohammad Nabi further strengthen the batting depth, giving Capitals the luxury of flexible plans depending on match conditions.
Bowling remains the team’s biggest strength. Tymal Mills will lead the pace unit with his left-arm variety and lethal yorkers. Haider Ali’s accuracy during the powerplay and Neesham’s variations provide excellent support. The Capitals’ spin department—featuring Waqar Salamkheil, Mohammad Nabi, and Naib—makes them highly dangerous on slower Dubai surfaces, offering both control and wickets in the middle overs.
With a well-rounded squad and a psychological edge over the Vipers, Dubai Capitals aim to begin their title defence with a strong performance.
Dubai Capitals Predicted Playing XI:
Dasun Shanaka (c), Sediquallah Atal, Gulbadin Naib, Rovman Powell, Farhan Khan, Haider Ali, Jordan Cox (wk), Tymal Mills, Mohammad Nabi, James Neesham, Waqar Salamkheil, Leus du Plooy (Impact Player)
Desert Vipers Team Preview
Desert Vipers enter ILT20 2025–26 determined to end their losing streak against Dubai Capitals. After topping the league table last season but failing in the final, they have revamped leadership with Lockie Ferguson as captain. Their squad remains strong, but winning high-pressure moments will be key.
The batting lineup is one of the strongest in the league. Fakhar Zaman and Andries Gous form a dynamic opening pair—Fakhar brings attacking intent, while Gous is known for explosive starts. Daniel Lawrence, Max Holden, and Sam Curran form a dependable middle order capable of rebuilding or accelerating as the match demands. Shimron Hetmyer adds fearless hitting ability and will be crucial in the final overs.
On the bowling front, the Vipers possess both pace and spin threats. Ferguson and Naseem Shah will spearhead the pace attack, banking on bounce and speed. David Payne adds left-arm variation, while Sam Curran offers accuracy and clutch wickets. The spin duo of Qais Ahmed and Noor Ahmed gives them strong wicket-taking potential in the middle overs and against right-hand heavy lineups.
However, what the Vipers must overcome is their inability to finish games against Dubai Capitals. Poor execution at crucial moments and inability to break key partnerships have haunted them. For Ferguson’s side, sticking to strategy and holding nerve will decide their fate.
Desert Vipers Predicted Playing XI:
Lockie Ferguson (c), Max Holden, Daniel Lawrence, Andries Gous (wk), Sanjay Pahal, Sam Curran, Shimron Hetmyer, Fakhar Zaman, Qais Ahmed, David Payne, Noor Ahmed, Naseem Shah (Impact Player)
Probable XI
| Dubai Capitals | Desert Vipers |
|---|---|
| Dasun Shanaka (c) | Lockie Ferguson (c) |
| Sediquallah Atal | Fakhar Zaman |
| Leus du Plooy | Andries Gous (wk) |
| Gulbadin Naib | Daniel Lawrence |
| Rovman Powell | Max Holden |
| Jordan Cox (wk) | Sam Curran |
| James Neesham | Shimron Hetmyer |
| Mohammad Nabi | David Payne |
| Tymal Mills | Qais Ahmed |
| Waqar Salamkheil | Noor Ahmed |
| Haider Ali | Naseem Shah |
Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Jordan Cox |
| BAT | Rovman Powell |
| BAT | Fakhar Zaman |
| BAT | Andries Gous |
| ALL | Sam Curran |
| ALL | Gulbadin Naib (C) |
| ALL | Mohammad Nabi |
| BOWL | Tymal Mills |
| BOWL | Naseem Shah |
| BOWL | Waqar Salamkheil |
| BOWL | David Payne (VC) |
This fantasy XI balances power hitters, all-rounders, and wicket-taking bowlers ideal for Dubai conditions. Jordan Cox is the preferred wicketkeeper for his consistency and finishing ability. Rovman Powell and Fakhar Zaman add high strike-rate potential, while Andries Gous is a reliable option at the top.
Gulbadin Naib is the best captaincy pick thanks to his dual impact—runs in the middle order and wickets with the ball. Sam Curran and Mohammad Nabi bring proven all-round value and regularly deliver fantasy points across formats.
Tymal Mills and Naseem Shah are strike bowlers with high wicket potential, especially with early swing and pace. Waqar Salamkheil’s middle-over spin threat and David Payne’s left-arm angle add strong variety. Payne’s overs at the death make him an excellent vice-captain choice.
Players to Avoid
- Sanjay Pahal (inconsistent returns)
- Farhan Khan (not a high-impact fantasy option)
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Dubai Capitals enter the match as favourites for several reasons. Firstly, their six consecutive wins against Desert Vipers give them a strong psychological edge. Secondly, their lineup is perfectly suited for Dubai’s surfaces—combining explosive batting with a superior spin unit. The presence of multi-dimensional all-rounders like Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, and James Neesham gives them strategic flexibility unmatched by most teams.
Meanwhile, Desert Vipers have a powerful squad but lack consistency against this particular opponent. Their bowling, though dangerous, tends to leak runs under pressure. Unless their top order delivers a flawless start and their bowlers execute perfectly, the Vipers may find it difficult to overpower the more balanced and experienced Capitals unit.
Pitch Report
Dubai International Stadium generally offers a batting-friendly surface with even bounce and good carry. Pacers get early swing under lights, while spinners come into play as the pitch slows down. Scores of 150–170 are competitive, depending on dew. Dew often aids the chasing side, making bowling difficult in the second innings. Expect both teams to rely heavily on pace variations and wrist spin to control the middle overs.
Weather Report
Dubai will experience clear skies with low humidity. Ideal playing conditions with no rain forecast. Dew may play a role in the second innings.
Broadcast Details
Live streaming available on ZEE5 and Fancode. Telecast on Zee Entertainment Network across multiple sports channels.
Toss Prediction
Dubai Capitals are likely to win the toss. Both teams may opt to chase because dew plays a major role during night games, making batting easier later.
Score Prediction
If Dubai Capitals Bat First: 153–174
If Desert Vipers Bat First: 147–168
A high-scoring encounter is expected, but disciplined bowling during the powerplay will determine whether the score crosses 170.
Probable Top Batsman & Bowler
Top Batsmen:
Rovman Powell is a standout contender given his recent T20 form and record against Vipers. Fakhar Zaman is the best pick for the Vipers due to his explosive starts. Jordan Cox and Daniel Lawrence may also play impactful innings.
Top Bowlers:
Tymal Mills remains the biggest threat with his pace and yorkers. Waqar Salamkheil’s wrist spin will be crucial in middle overs. For Vipers, Naseem Shah and Qais Ahmed are likely to take key wickets thanks to their variations and match awareness.
Also Check For More: ILT20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Dubai Capitals carry a clear edge entering this contest with a stronger spin attack, superior middle order, and dominating head-to-head record. Desert Vipers have the firepower to challenge, but their inconsistency in big matches remains a concern. Unless the Vipers produce exceptional performances with both bat and ball, the Capitals are well-positioned to register another win.
Prediction: Dubai Capitals Will Win
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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