Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Prediction: Who Will Win 9th T20 ILT20 Match on 9th December 2025?
The Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction for the 9th T20 of ILT20 2025 promises to be one of the most gripping fixtures of the tournament, as two evenly matched teams collide at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. With both teams coming off contrasting results, this match holds significant importance in shaping the middle part of the league standings. Desert Vipers will walk in with a tight turnaround, having played the Gulf Giants just 24 hours earlier. Their batting unit, led by Andries Gous and Shimron Hetmyer, has shown sparks of brilliance, while their bowling — anchored by Noor Ahmad and David Payne — continues to be a reliable force.
MI Emirates, meanwhile, bounced back strongly after a disappointing loss in the opening match. Their victory against Sharjah Warriorz by a narrow four-run margin restored confidence. With power-packed performers such as Jonny Bairstow, Romario Shepherd, and Kieron Pollard, MI Emirates have the firepower to challenge any opponent on any given day. Their bowling, too, is strengthened by young Afghan sensation AM Ghazanfar and the experienced Naveen-ul-Haq.
Given the ground conditions at Abu Dhabi — where chasing has a 57% success rate and pitch scores have gradually risen over the past three years — the Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates prediction becomes even more intense. Both teams possess heavy hitters, quality spin, and reliable pace options. With head-to-head records tied 2-2 in their last four meetings, fans can expect a nail-biting clash between two highly competitive sides aiming to climb the points table.
- Desert Vipers rely on Gous, Lawrence, Hetmyer, and Noor Ahmad’s consistency.
- MI Emirates depend on Bairstow, Pollard, Shepherd, and Ghazanfar.
- Abu Dhabi pitch now favours batters; chasing teams win 57% matches.
- Last 5 head-to-head matches: 2 wins each – evenly balanced rivalry.
Match Details
| Match | DV vs MIE, 9th T20 ILT20 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, December 9, 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM Local |
| Venue | Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
Team Preview
Desert Vipers Preview
Desert Vipers enter this match with mixed momentum, having played just a day earlier. Their busy schedule may test their fitness and depth, but this side is known for resilience and adaptability. The Vipers’ batting has shown steady improvement, with Andries Gous leading the run charts. Gous’ ability to strike early boundaries at a healthy strike rate has provided strong starts. Shimron Hetmyer brings middle-order assurance, showcasing his flair for accelerating during pressure situations. Dan Lawrence, too, has impressed with both bat and ball, contributing crucial runs alongside his occasional off-spin breakthroughs.
The Vipers’ bowling remains one of their most potent assets. Noor Ahmad has been a standout performer this season, delivering sharp turns and deceptive variations while picking wickets at vital intervals. David Payne brings left-arm pace, swinging the ball both ways and maintaining control during powerplay overs. Qais Ahmad provides further spin depth, while experienced pacers such as Khuzaima Tanveer and Faridoon Dawoodzai strengthen the pace battery.
Vipers’ biggest challenge remains handling MI Emirates’ powerful middle order. However, with their strong core featuring Sam Curran, Hasaranga, and Gous, they have the combination to challenge any lineup. If they maintain discipline in the powerplay and finish strongly at the death, Vipers can dictate the pace of this contest.
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates showed strong resolve by bouncing back with a thrilling win after their earlier loss. Their team is full of multi-dimensional players capable of contributing significantly in crunch situations. Jonny Bairstow has been consistent up top, showcasing fearless ball-striking during the powerplay. His aggressive style sets the tone early. Kieron Pollard remains the backbone of the middle order, adding stability and explosive finishing. Romario Shepherd is in astonishing form, scoring 49 runs off just 16 balls across two innings — displaying his power-hitting prowess.
The bowling department has been particularly impressive. Young Afghan spinner AM Ghazanfar, with his flight, turn, and accuracy, has quickly become a standout performer. Naveen-ul-Haq’s variations and death-over expertise also bolster their attack. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Zahoor Khan provide wicket-taking abilities and control during crucial phases.
Their bench strength is another advantage, offering flexibility in playing XI combinations. The Emirates side appear motivated and confident — but they must counter Desert Vipers’ spin-heavy strength and avoid mid-innings collapses, which have hurt them in the past.
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Desert Vipers Squad:
Lockie Ferguson (C), Andries Gous (WK), Vriitya Aravind (WK), Bilal Tahir, Tom Bruce, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Nawaz, Shimron Hetmyer, Max Holden, Dan Lawrence, Sam Curran, Wanindu Hasaranga, Faridoon Dawoodzai, Khuzaima Tanveer, Matiullah Khan, Naseem Shah, Noor Ahmad, Sanjay Pahal, David Payne, Qais Ahmad, Faisal Khan.
MI Emirates Squad:
Kieron Pollard (C), Jonny Bairstow (WK), Andre Fletcher, Tom Banton, Nicholas Pooran, Ackeem Auguste, Muhammad Waseem, Muhammad Usman, Kamindu Mendis, Shakib Al Hasan, Romario Shepherd, Jordan Thompson, Chris Woakes, Fazalhaq Farooqi, AM Ghazanfar, Nosthush Kenjige, Naveen-ul-Haq, Zahoor Khan, Muhammad Rohid.
Probable Playing XI
| Desert Vipers | MI Emirates |
|---|---|
| Andries Gous (WK) | Jonny Bairstow (WK) |
| Fakhar Zaman | Muhammad Waseem |
| Dan Lawrence | Nicholas Pooran |
| Shimron Hetmyer | Kieron Pollard (C) |
| Max Holden | Ackeem Auguste |
| Sam Curran | Romario Shepherd |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Shakib Al Hasan |
| Noor Ahmad | Naveen-ul-Haq |
| David Payne | AM Ghazanfar |
| Naseem Shah | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
| Khuzaima Tanveer | Zahoor Khan |
Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Andries Gous |
| WK | Jonny Bairstow |
| Bat | Shimron Hetmyer |
| Bat | Dan Lawrence |
| AR | Sam Curran |
| AR | Romario Shepherd |
| AR | Shakib Al Hasan |
| Bowl | Noor Ahmad |
| Bowl | Naveen-ul-Haq |
| Bowl | David Payne |
| Bowl | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
This fantasy XI combines consistency, form, and all-round ability. Andries Gous is a must-pick due to his opening role and excellent striking form this season. Jonny Bairstow adds wicketkeeping points and aggressive top-order value. Shimron Hetmyer and Dan Lawrence offer reliability during middle overs and can anchor or attack as needed.
All-rounders provide exceptional fantasy value. Sam Curran is crucial due to his three-phase bowling and explosive finishing. Shakib Al Hasan strengthens the spin department and can be a game-changer with the bat. Romario Shepherd has been the most impactful finisher this season, scoring at extraordinary strike rates and chipping in with wickets.
The bowling unit features wicket-takers from both teams. Noor Ahmad brings mystery spin and wicket potential. Naveen-ul-Haq excels in death overs, while David Payne is effective in the powerplay. Fazalhaq Farooqi offers movement upfront and accuracy later.
This combination is well-balanced for mega and small fantasy contests.
Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
- Captain: Sam Curran
- Vice-Captain: Jonny Bairstow
Players to Avoid
- Ackeem Auguste (inconsistent)
- Bilal Tahir (limited opportunity)
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Desert Vipers enter this contest with a slight advantage due to their stronger bowling depth and more consistent top-order batting. Their spin attack, led by Noor Ahmad and Qais Ahmad, has been highly effective on UAE pitches, often picking wickets in the middle overs. Their batting lineup feels better balanced, with Gous, Hetmyer, Holden and Lawrence forming a dependable core. MI Emirates, despite having powerful individual performers, rely heavily on bursts from Pollard, Shepherd or Bairstow. Their inconsistency in middle overs remains a concern. Vipers also possess death-overs specialists like Payne and Curran, which strengthens their control in close matches. Hence, Desert Vipers appear better equipped for today’s contest.
Pitch Report
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch has gradually shifted to become more batter-friendly in recent years. The average first-innings score has climbed from 147 (2023) to nearly 168 (2025). Pacers enjoy early movement, while spinners struggle for sharp turn, averaging 31+ per wicket. The ball comes nicely onto the bat during middle overs, making strokeplay easier. Chasing teams enjoy a 57% success rate due to dew and pitch settling later.
Weather Report
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures are expected in Abu Dhabi. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring ideal conditions for an uninterrupted T20 contest.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with digital streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode.
Toss Prediction
With chasing sides winning 57% of matches in Abu Dhabi, the toss-winning captain is likely to bowl first to take advantage of dew and improved batting conditions later.
Score Prediction
If Desert Vipers bat first: 148+
If MI Emirates bat first: 132+
Given the trend of rising totals at Abu Dhabi, anything above 165 becomes highly competitive, though dew makes chasing slightly easier.
Probable Best Batsman & Bowler
Best Batsman:
Andries Gous has been in superb form, playing with intent and consistency at the top. His powerplay dominance makes him the most likely top-scorer for Vipers. On the MI Emirates side, Jonny Bairstow’s aggressive style and ability to target pacers make him the standout batting threat.
Best Bowler:
Noor Ahmad is the likely best bowler from Desert Vipers due to his wicket-taking ability and economical spells. For MI Emirates, Naveen-ul-Haq stands out with his death-over variations and knack for breakthroughs.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on squad balance, recent form, and superior spin options, Desert Vipers hold a slight edge over MI Emirates. Their batting core looks more settled, and their bowling unit appears more dynamic across phases. MI Emirates must rely heavily on Pollard, Bairstow, and Shepherd to stay competitive. Our 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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