Naseem, Curran help Desert Vipers beat MI Emirates to clinch ILT20 2025-26 title

DUBAI: Desert Vipers clinched their maiden ILT20 title after defeating MI Emirates by 46 runs in the final, courtesy of a disciplined bowling display led by Naseem Shah and an unbeaten half-century from skipper Sam Curran, here on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Batting first, Desert Vipers posted a competitive 182-4 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to an exceptional unbeaten knock by Curran, who scored 74 off 51 balls, smashing eight fours and two sixes.

Max Holden provided solid support with 41 off 32 deliveries, including two fours and a six, while Fakhar Zaman got off to a decent start, scoring 20 off 15 balls with the help of two fours and a six. 

Dan Lawrence finished strongly, contributing 23 off 15 balls, featuring a four and a six.

MI Emirates used as many as eight bowlers in the grand finale, with Fazalhaq Farooqi leading the attack by claiming 2-33 in his four overs, while Akeal Hosein picked up one wicket.

In reply, Emirates were bundled out for 136 in 18.3 overs. Shakib Al Hasan top-scored with 36 off 27 balls, hitting three boundaries. 

Skipper Kieron Pollard added a run-a-ball 28, including two fours, while opener Muhammad Waseem struck a quick 26 off 13 deliveries, featuring three fours and a six.

For the Vipers, Naseem Shah and David Payne starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each in their four-over spells. Khuzaima Tanveer and Usman Tariq also chipped in with two wickets apiece.

It is pertinent to mention that the Sam Curran-led Desert Vipers featured in their third ILT20 final in four seasons and finally lifted the title for the first time.