Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Prediction: Who Will Win 4th T20 ILT20 Match on 5th December 2025?
The Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction for the 4th match of ILT20 2025 comes at a crucial early juncture in the season, with both sides entering this contest unbeaten and showing strong signs of form. As the tournament gains momentum, this clash promises high intensity, world-class performances, and potentially season-defining moments. The match will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday, 5 December 2025, a venue that has delivered countless memorable T20 encounters through its true bounce, fast outfield, and capacity to assist both batters and bowlers depending on execution.
The Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction becomes even more intriguing because both teams registered commanding victories in their respective opening matches. The Vipers, last season’s runners-up, displayed remarkable balance in their win over Dubai Capitals, showing early robustness in batting and impressive control through their spin-pace combination. Meanwhile, the Knight Riders delivered one of the most powerful statements of ILT20 2025 by topping the points table with a dominating win, driven by blistering batting and disciplined bowling.
With the head-to-head record locked at 2-2 in the last four meetings, fans can expect another close contest. However, the Vipers have won the previous two matchups in 2025, giving them a psychological edge. The Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction hinges on several key factors—how batters adapt to the conditions under lights, which team handles pressure moments better, and whose bowlers can execute their plans in the middle and death overs. With match-winners on both sides and the early opportunity to climb the table, this fixture promises fireworks and gripping T20 drama.
- Desert Vipers and ADKR are both unbeaten heading into Match 4 of ILT20 2025.
- Vipers hold a 2-win streak over ADKR from earlier in 2025.
- Sharjah/Dubai conditions favour teams chasing due to dew and short boundaries.
- Both sides feature explosive batting lineups—Livingstone, Gous, Curran, and Rutherford set to headline.
Match Details
| Match | Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, 4th T20 ILT20 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 5 December 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Live Broadcast | Zee Network, ZEE5, FanCode |
Desert Vipers Team Preview
Desert Vipers enter the contest with confidence and clarity after a solid winning start to their ILT20 2025–26 season. Their four-wicket victory over Dubai Capitals outlined their composure under pressure and control across all phases. The batting clicked in critical moments, the bowling unit maintained discipline, and the experienced international core displayed the professionalism required to become genuine title contenders once again.
In the opening match, their chase of 150/8 displayed tactical maturity. Despite early wickets falling, Andries Gous anchored the innings brilliantly, scoring a match-winning 58 off 36 balls. His calmness, timing, and ability to rotate strike allowed the Vipers to stabilize after the powerplay wobble. Fakhar Zaman added a quick 26, providing the initial spark before Gous and Max Holden guided the middle overs.
The bowling performance was equally impressive. Noor Ahmad’s crafty 2/25 choked runs during the middle overs, while David Payne extracted movement under lights to claim 2/26. Their ability to force dot balls and maintain pressure prevented Dubai from breaking free, restricting them to a par below-par total.
Historically, the Vipers have been strong starters, and their squad depth reflects a well-planned team structure. Max Holden, Sam Curran, and Hetmyer form a dangerous middle order capable of shifting gears instantly. Curran’s all-round abilities—power hitting and wicket-taking swing—give the Vipers a decisive advantage in crunch situations.
Bowling depth remains a major strength. Naseem Shah’s raw pace complements Payne’s new-ball precision, while Khuzaima Tanveer and Noor Ahmad control the middle phases. With all departments looking balanced and recent dominance over ADKR, the Vipers head into this game with strong momentum.
Key Players:
Andries Gous • Max Holden • Sam Curran • David Payne • Noor Ahmad
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Team Preview
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have launched their ILT20 2025 campaign in explosive fashion, registering the most commanding performance of the opening round. Their 39-run win showcased their elite batting strength, depth, and much-improved bowling application. ADKR currently sit at the top of the points table with an outstanding +1.950 NRR, highlighting their early dominance.
The centrepiece of their opening win was Liam Livingstone, who delivered one of the standout knocks of the tournament so far—an unbeaten 82 off 38 balls featuring eight towering sixes. His counterattacking intent transformed the innings and helped ADKR compile a mammoth total of 233/4. Sherfane Rutherford also excelled, striking a fluent 45 off 27 balls, maintaining relentless scoring pressure.
Their bowling attack complemented the batting fireworks. Jason Holder’s accuracy produced two crucial wickets, while Netravalkar’s tight lines ensured the opposition never fully recovered from early setbacks. Sunil Narine, as always, provided stability with his economical middle-overs spell.
Form indicators from the previous season further strengthen ADKR’s prospects. Alishan Sharafu tallied 208 runs in 10 matches at a strong strike rate, while Holder shone as both a wicket-taker (17 wickets) and a destructive lower-order hitter. Their combination of experience, all-round ability, and young local talent makes them formidable.
Even though the head-to-head stands at 2-2 across four recent matches, the Knight Riders remain determined to reverse their two losses to the Vipers earlier in 2025. ADKR’s current form suggests they have the firepower to challenge strongly—however, facing the Vipers’ bowling lineup under lights will be their toughest test yet.
Key Players:
Liam Livingstone • Sherfane Rutherford • Jason Holder • Sunil Narine • Alishan Sharafu
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Probable Playing XI
| Desert Vipers | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders |
|---|---|
| Fakhar Zaman | Alishan Sharafu |
| Andries Gous | Liam Livingstone |
| Max Holden | Sherfane Rutherford |
| Sam Curran | Dinesh Chandimal |
| Dan Lawrence | Jason Holder |
| Shimron Hetmyer | Sunil Narine |
| Hasan Nawaz | Adil Rashid |
| Khuzaima Tanveer | George Garton |
| Vriitya Aravind | Saurabh Netravalkar |
| David Payne | Olly Stone |
| Naseem Shah | Ali Khan |
Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Andries Gous, Vriitya Aravind |
| Batters | Liam Livingstone, Max Holden, Fakhar Zaman |
| All-rounders | Sam Curran (C), Jason Holder (VC), Sunil Narine |
| Bowlers | David Payne, Naseem Shah, Adil Rashid |
This fantasy XI focuses on a balanced combination of form, pitch suitability, and impact potential. For the wicketkeeper slots, Andries Gous remains the most reliable pick given his match-winning fifty in the opener, while Vriitya Aravind offers consistency and value in the lower order.
The batting unit features Liam Livingstone, whose explosive 82* makes him a mandatory pick, along with Max Holden, who has been in outstanding touch in recent months. Fakhar Zaman is chosen for his power-play striking ability, especially at Dubai where he thrives on pace.
In the all-rounders section, Sam Curran is the ideal captain as he contributes with both bat and ball, while Jason Holder is named vice-captain due to his wicket-taking threat and finishing ability. Sunil Narine adds middle-overs control and occasional boundary-hitting value.
The bowling trio of David Payne, Naseem Shah, and Adil Rashid covers phases from new ball to death overs. Payne’s swing, Naseem’s pace, and Rashid’s variations make them fantasy gold.
Players to Avoid
- Hasan Nawaz – inconsistent form
- George Garton – limited recent wicket-taking impact
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Desert Vipers enter this contest as the marginal favourites due to their recent head-to-head dominance, squad balance, and strong showing in their opening game. Their victory over defending champions Dubai Capitals highlighted their superior bowling discipline and ability to handle pressure moments—qualities essential in Sharjah/Dubai conditions. The presence of match-winners like Sam Curran, Max Holden, and David Payne provides the Vipers with a tactical advantage in both powerplay and death overs.
While Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have equally strong momentum, their reliance on big-hitting performances from Livingstone and Rutherford could backfire if early wickets fall. The Vipers possess a more structured batting unit and a bowling attack better suited to handling dew and flat pitches. Recent form, strategic depth, and superior adaptability give the Vipers a slight upper hand.
Pitch Report
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium offers a balanced pitch with early assistance for pacers followed by a reliable batting surface. Seamers generate movement under lights, particularly in the first four overs, while spinners enjoy grip in the middle phase due to the venue’s abrasive nature. Once set, batters can score freely because the boundaries are moderate in size and the outfield is remarkably quick. Dew in the second innings often reduces turn and improves chasing prospects, making bowling first a strategic advantage. Expect a competitive surface producing totals between 160 and 180.
Weather Report
Clear skies with mild evening temperatures around 24°C are expected. Humidity will rise after 9 PM, potentially assisting dew formation. No rain forecast, ensuring a full uninterrupted match.
Broadcast Details
Live coverage of the match will be available on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming accessible on ZEE5 and FanCode across regions.
Toss Prediction
Teams prefer chasing at Dubai due to dew and stable batting conditions in the second innings. Desert Vipers are predicted to win the toss and elect to bowl first.
Score Prediction
Based on conditions and both teams’ batting strength:
- If Desert Vipers bat first: 163–178
- If Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bat first: 147–165
The chasing team may have a slight advantage if dew sets in.
Probable Best Batsmen & Bowlers
Best Batters:
Liam Livingstone is the most dangerous batter in this contest—his ability to clear any boundary makes him a constant threat. For the Vipers, Andries Gous stands out due to his recent form and ability to control the chase roles. Max Holden’s consistency also makes him a likely 25+ run scorer.
Best Bowlers:
David Payne’s swing under lights makes him the most potent new-ball bowler in this fixture. Naseem Shah’s raw pace can create breakthroughs in middle overs. For ADKR, Jason Holder remains a key wicket-taker due to his bounce and accuracy, while Sunil Narine’s variations can trouble batsmen on the turning surface.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Match Prediction
The Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction slightly favours the Vipers based on squad balance, recent head-to-head superiority, and a more dependable bowling unit. While ADKR have explosive hitters, the Vipers are better equipped for pressure phases and adapting to changing pitch conditions. Expect a competitive match, but Desert Vipers hold the edge.
Predicted Winner: Desert Vipers
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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