Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Prediction: Who Will Win 24th T20 ILT20 Match on 21st December 2025?
The Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction for the 24th match of the ILT20 2025 points towards a high-intensity clash between the table-toppers and a dangerous mid-table challenger. Scheduled to be played on Sunday, 21st December 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this encounter carries major playoff implications. Desert Vipers have been the most consistent team of the tournament, registering six wins from seven matches and already sealing a playoff berth. Their campaign has been built on disciplined bowling, adaptable batting, and calm execution in pressure situations. Even in close finishes, the Vipers have shown the temperament needed to close games, as seen in their thrilling one-run victory over MI Emirates earlier this season.
MI Emirates, on the other hand, have shown flashes of brilliance mixed with inconsistency. With four wins from seven matches, they remain firmly in the playoff race but cannot afford lapses at this stage of the competition. Their batting unit boasts explosive names capable of changing the game within a few overs, while their pace attack has produced match-winning spells when conditions suit. However, MI Emirates have struggled to maintain momentum across all phases of the game, particularly in the middle overs.
The Dubai surface is expected to be balanced, with something for batters early on and spinners coming into play as the game progresses. Dew could be a factor in the second innings, making toss and execution crucial. Overall, the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction hinges on whether MI Emirates can disrupt the Vipers’ rhythm or if the table leaders will once again assert their dominance with a composed all-round performance.
- Desert Vipers sit top of the table with 6 wins from 7 matches
- MI Emirates remain playoff contenders but need consistency
- Dubai pitch expected to offer balance for bat and ball
- A tactical contest likely decided in middle and death overs
Match Details
| Match | Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates, 24th T20 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | International League T20 2025 |
| Date | Sunday, 21 December 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Format | T20 |
Desert Vipers Preview
Desert Vipers have emerged as the benchmark side of ILT20 2025, combining consistency with adaptability across conditions. With six wins from seven matches, they have not only topped the points table but also showcased an ability to win games in different scenarios—defending modest totals, chasing under pressure, and controlling tight finishes. Their narrow one-run victory against MI Emirates earlier in the season epitomised their resilience, where disciplined bowling under pressure made the difference.
At the top of the order, Max Holden and Fakhar Zaman have provided intent and stability. Holden’s ability to play long innings while maintaining a healthy strike rate has allowed the Vipers to build platforms, while Fakhar’s aggression keeps opposition bowlers under pressure in the powerplay. The middle order, led by Dan Lawrence and skipper Sam Curran, has been instrumental in rotating strike and accelerating when required. Curran’s all-round value—both with bat and ball—adds tactical flexibility and leadership during crunch moments.
Behind the stumps, Vriitya Aravind has been reliable, ensuring smooth transitions during the innings. The bowling attack, however, has been the cornerstone of the Vipers’ success. David Payne has consistently delivered breakthroughs, including his four-wicket haul against MI Emirates earlier in the season. Lockie Ferguson’s pace provides penetration, while spinners Qais Ahmad and Noor Ahmad have controlled the middle overs effectively by choking runs and forcing mistakes.
Another key contributor has been Khuzaima Tanveer, whose knack for picking wickets at crucial junctures has often tilted matches in the Vipers’ favour. Even in their recent narrow loss, the Vipers remained competitive until the final ball, underlining the depth and composure within the squad.
Heading into this fixture, Desert Vipers will look to reassert dominance, tighten execution in the death overs, and maintain their strong fielding standards. If their top order fires and the bowlers stick to disciplined lines, they will once again be well placed to control the tempo of the game.
Key Players: Max Holden, Sam Curran, David Payne, Fakhar Zaman, Khuzaima Tanveer
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates have had a mixed but competitive ILT20 2025 campaign, registering four wins from seven matches and staying firmly in contention for a playoff spot. Their season has been defined by moments of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. When their key players click together, MI Emirates look like one of the most dangerous sides in the league.
The batting lineup is packed with international firepower. Jonny Bairstow has been the standout performer, anchoring chases and providing aggressive starts at the top. His recent unbeaten 49 in a successful chase highlighted his ability to control tempo and finish games. Nicholas Pooran, leading the side, brings explosiveness and experience, capable of changing the course of a match in a few overs. Tom Banton and Muhammad Waseem add further depth, ensuring MI Emirates can maintain pressure throughout the innings.
However, the middle order has occasionally faltered, particularly when early wickets fall. Building partnerships during the middle overs remains an area of focus if MI Emirates are to challenge stronger sides like the Vipers. All-rounders such as Chris Woakes and Akeal Hosein provide balance, contributing both control with the ball and useful runs down the order.
Bowling has been a mixed bag. Fazalhaq Farooqi has been the standout, producing wicket-taking spells that have dismantled opposition lineups, including a four-wicket haul against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. Rashid Khan’s presence adds control and wicket-taking threat in the middle overs, while Woakes offers discipline with the new ball. However, supporting bowlers must tighten their lines, especially at the death, where MI Emirates have conceded crucial runs.
Against Desert Vipers, MI Emirates will need to be at their tactical best—targeting early wickets, managing the middle overs smartly, and avoiding lapses in fielding. If they can sustain pressure across all phases, they have the firepower to challenge the table leaders.
Key Players: Jonny Bairstow, Nicholas Pooran, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan, Chris Woakes
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Desert Vipers: Max Holden, Fakhar Zaman, Sam Curran, Dan Lawrence, Vriitya Aravind, Lockie Ferguson, David Payne, Khuzaima Tanveer, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, Tom Curran
MI Emirates: Jonny Bairstow, Nicholas Pooran, Tom Banton, Muhammad Waseem, Rashid Khan, Chris Woakes, Akeal Hosein, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Zahoor Khan, Amit Hassan, David Payne
Probable Playing XI
| Desert Vipers | MI Emirates |
|---|---|
| Max Holden | Jonny Bairstow |
| Fakhar Zaman | Muhammad Waseem |
| Dan Lawrence | Tom Banton |
| Sam Curran (c) | Nicholas Pooran (c) |
| Vriitya Aravind (wk) | Rashid Khan |
| Tom Curran | Chris Woakes |
| Lockie Ferguson | Akeal Hosein |
| David Payne | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
| Khuzaima Tanveer | Zahoor Khan |
| Qais Ahmad | Amit Hassan |
| Noor Ahmad | — |
Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Jonny Bairstow, Max Holden, Fakhar Zaman |
| All-rounders | Sam Curran, Chris Woakes |
| Bowlers | David Payne, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rashid Khan, Lockie Ferguson |
| Wicketkeeper | Vriitya Aravind |
| Flex | Tom Banton |
Fantasy selection for this match should prioritize all-rounders and top-order batters, as Dubai conditions generally reward players involved in multiple phases. Jonny Bairstow is a must-pick due to his consistency and ability to anchor chases. Max Holden and Fakhar Zaman offer strong upside at the top for Desert Vipers, especially if they bat first.
Sam Curran stands out as a premium fantasy option given his dual contributions and leadership role. Chris Woakes provides similar value, especially with the new ball and late-order hitting. Among bowlers, David Payne’s wicket-taking form and Fazalhaq Farooqi’s strike power make them high-impact picks. Rashid Khan remains valuable for middle-over control and breakthroughs, while Lockie Ferguson’s pace can fetch early wickets.
Vriitya Aravind is a safe wicketkeeping option due to his consistency behind the stumps and ability to chip in with runs. Tom Banton adds differential value as an aggressive batter.
Captain: Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow
Vice-Captain: Max Holden, Nicholas Pooran
Avoid: Amit Hassan, Zahoor Khan
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Desert Vipers
Desert Vipers enter this contest as favourites due to their superior consistency, balanced squad, and proven ability to handle pressure situations. They have already defeated MI Emirates in a tight contest earlier this season and have repeatedly shown composure in close finishes. Their bowling attack, led by David Payne and supported by quality spin options, gives them control in all phases of the game. The batting lineup has depth and adaptability, allowing them to post competitive totals or chase efficiently. MI Emirates possess match-winners, but their inconsistency—particularly in the middle overs—puts them at a disadvantage against a disciplined side like the Vipers. If Desert Vipers maintain their structured approach and fielding standards, they should dictate the match.
Pitch Report
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium traditionally offers a balanced surface. Batters can score freely early, but the pitch tends to slow down as the match progresses, bringing spinners into play. Pacers who vary pace and hit the deck hard are effective in the death overs. A score between 150–165 is competitive, with chasing slightly easier under lights if dew sets in.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Dubai with temperatures around 22–26°C. Humidity will be moderate, and there is no forecast of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the evening.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode, offering live coverage, highlights, and expert analysis.
Toss Prediction
The team winning the toss is likely to opt to bowl first, considering potential dew in the second innings and the venue’s history of successful chases under lights.
Score Prediction
- If Desert Vipers bat first: 150–160 runs
- If MI Emirates bat first: 145–155 runs
A closely fought contest is expected, with bowlers playing a key role in determining the final outcome.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsmen: Jonny Bairstow, Max Holden
Probable Bowlers: David Payne, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Bairstow’s form and composure make him MI Emirates’ best batting bet, while Holden’s consistency at the top strengthens the Vipers. Payne’s ability to strike at crucial moments and Farooqi’s pace and swing could define the bowling battle.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on current form, squad balance, and execution under pressure, the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction favours Desert Vipers. MI Emirates can challenge if their top order fires, but the Vipers’ disciplined bowling and calm finishing should see them secure another win.
Final Prediction: Desert Vipers 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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