Predicted Playing XI of Royal Desert Champions in Match 14 of Abu Dhabi T10 2026 against Yas Lions

Royal Desert Champions will lock horns with Yas Lions in Match 14 of the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2026 on Friday, November 13, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The Nicholas Pooran-led side will look to register consecutive victories after securing an impressive six-wicket win against UAE Bulls in their previous fixture.

Royal Desert Champions had endured a difficult start to the competition, suffering three consecutive defeats. However, their recent victory has provided the team with much-needed confidence. Chasing a target of 124 runs against UAE Bulls, the Champions recovered from 34/3 to complete the chase in just 9.1 overs. Muhammad Waseem scored 36 runs off 18 deliveries, while Sherfane Rutherford smashed an unbeaten-looking match-winning contribution of 40 off just 13 balls.

Yas Lions, meanwhile, have enjoyed a comparatively stronger campaign, winning three of their first four matches. They registered a convincing 29-run victory against Arabian Aces in their previous outing and will enter this contest with considerable confidence.

The upcoming fixture will be a challenging assignment for Royal Desert Champions, but their squad possesses plenty of international experience. With explosive batters and quality bowling options available, the team management is expected to retain most of its winning combination.

Here’s Predicted Royal Desert Champions Playing XI against Yas Lions

1. Phil Salt (WK)

Phil Salt is expected to open the innings and take responsibility behind the stumps. The England international is the leading run-scorer for Royal Desert Champions in the competition, with 83 runs to his name. His aggressive batting approach makes him a dangerous opponent in the powerplay. Salt will be expected to provide a quick start and put Yas Lions’ bowlers under pressure.

2. Brandon King

Brandon King could partner Salt at the top of the order. The West Indies batter possesses plenty of experience in franchise cricket and can score boundaries consistently. His ability to attack pace bowling will be important in the opening overs. King will also be expected to build a strong partnership with Salt.

3. Nicholas Pooran (C)

Nicholas Pooran is likely to bat at number three and lead the side. The explosive left-hander is among the most dangerous T10 batters, capable of changing the match within a few deliveries. His experience will be crucial in guiding the middle order and handling pressure situations. Pooran’s leadership will also be important against an in-form Yas Lions side.

4. Muhammad Waseem

Muhammad Waseem is expected to retain his place after producing an important contribution against UAE Bulls. He scored 36 runs off 18 deliveries in the previous fixture and helped Royal Desert Champions recover from an early collapse. His ability to accelerate quickly makes him a valuable middle-order option.

5. Sherfane Rutherford

Sherfane Rutherford will be one of the biggest threats in the batting lineup. The West Indies batter smashed 40 runs off just 13 deliveries against UAE Bulls, helping his team complete a successful chase. His powerful hitting and ability to finish games make him an automatic selection for this fixture. He will be expected to deliver another explosive performance.

6. Gulbadin Naib

Gulbadin Naib is likely to feature as an important all-rounder. The Afghanistan international can contribute with aggressive batting in the lower middle order and provide useful medium-pace overs. His experience in franchise competitions will also help Pooran make tactical decisions during the match.

7. Keemo Paul

Keemo Paul could retain his place as one of the key all-rounders. He has been Royal Desert Champions’ leading wicket-taker in the competition, with two wickets to his name. His variations and ability to bowl during the death overs make him an important option. He can also contribute with the bat when required.

8. Ali Naseer

Ali Naseer is expected to strengthen the team’s all-round department. The UAE international can contribute with both bat and ball, providing flexibility to the playing combination. His familiarity with local conditions could also prove beneficial against Yas Lions.

9. Chris Jordan

Chris Jordan could feature as one of the experienced pace-bowling options. The England international is renowned for his death-bowling skills and ability to execute yorkers under pressure. His experience in short-format competitions will be valuable when facing aggressive batters such as James Vince and Andries Gous.

10. Maheesh Theekshana

Maheesh Theekshana is likely to lead the spin-bowling department. The Sri Lankan mystery spinner possesses variations that can trouble batters in the middle overs. His ability to control the scoring rate and pick up wickets will be important against Yas Lions’ powerful batting lineup.

11. Naseem Shah

Naseem Shah could complete the playing XI and lead the pace attack alongside Chris Jordan. The Pakistan speedster has the ability to generate considerable pace and trouble batters with his variations. His opening spell could be crucial in restricting Yas Lions during the powerplay.

Predicted Playing XI: Phil Salt (WK), Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran (C), Muhammad Waseem, Sherfane Rutherford, Gulbadin Naib, Keemo Paul, Ali Naseer, Chris Jordan, Maheesh Theekshana and Naseem Shah.

Note: This is a predicted combination based on the available squad and recent performances. The final playing XI will be confirmed at the toss.