Dubai Capitals orchestrated a comprehensive 9-wicket victory against Desert Vipers, with Qais Ahmad’s remarkable 4-wicket haul leading the bowling attack at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the ILT20 2025. The triumph was characterized by strategic spin bowling that effectively dismantled the Vipers’ batting lineup, restricting them to 137 despite their strong start of 82 runs in the initial 10 overs.
Following the match, Qais Ahmad reflected on the support received from team leadership, particularly highlighting captain Sam Billings’ pre-match communication.
Qais Ahmad’s exceptional bowling performance proved to be decisive, as he systematically dismantled the opposition’s batting order with precision. His spell featured key wickets, starting with Sam Curran, who was caught by Farhan Khan. He then dismissed Dan Lawrence, who could only manage 44 before being caught by Dasun Shanaka off one of Ahmad’s deliveries. Ahmad also had Michael Jones trapped in LBW and then bowled Adam Hose, further showcasing his mastery of spin variations throughout the middle overs.
Qais providing insight into the match’s turning point for Desert Vipers, said, “We broke their momentum with spin and I got four wickets in four overs. That was the reason their team combination did not work.”
Reflecting on his own growth and learning experience, Qais Ahmad added, “I’ve played a lot of cricket, but you can never be a complete player because there’s always something new to learn. Being art of a team with legends like David Warner, Sam Billings and Gulbadin Naib is an invaluable experience.
The spinner noting that their balanced team composition has been key to their recent successes shares, “Our team balance has been very good. In the two games I have played, our top 3 batsmen have won the game for us. Billings, Dasun Shanaka, Sikandar Raza and I did not get a chance to bat in these games and I am even batting well.” Qais added explaining the irony.
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| |Vipers stung by some venomous bowling!
On the hard length, draws the batter forward and sneaks past his defences! Qais Ahmed is onDubai Capitals are bossing this.#DVvDC #DPWorldILT20 #RaceToThePlayoffs #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/5nxwI4IfBj
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) February 3, 2025
Qais Ahmad also reflecting on team’s all round strength shares, “Our team is very good and we have big players with us. We are ready for the upcoming matches; our preparation has gone well and hopefully we will win our upcoming match,” he added
This commanding performance positions the Capitals as favorites heading into the crucial playoff encounter at their home ground, where they aim to maintain their unbeaten record against the Vipers this season. The upcoming Qualifier 1 will see Dubai Capitals take on Desert Vipers once again, scheduled for February 5th at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The match will also be livestreamed at 8 PM IST. While the Capitals hold a significant psychological advantage, having secured two victories over the Desert Vipers in the league stage, the showdown promises to be a thrilling contest.
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