What DG’s Playing XI Could Look Like Against VR in the 28th Match of Abu Dhabi T10 2025

There’s a poetic element to the Deccan Gladiators playing in Abu Dhabi. They do not appear to be at their best; however, they win much more than you would expect. The Abu Dhabi T10 is a competition that encourages chaos, power, and making decisions quickly. This format appears to be an ideal place for Deccan Gladiators to succeed, as they’ve assembled a team that has the potential to thrive in such an environment. However, when Deccan Gladiators meet with Vista Riders in the 28th match of the competition, the largest concern will not be if Deccan Gladiators can create enough firepower, but rather how they will be able to create that firepower in the correct order.

Top Order Built on Controlled Violence

DG cannot risk Tom Kohler Cadmore at the top of the order; they are in desperate need of a solid, capable keeper to provide stability while also being able to bat quickly and avoid losing form early on. However, if they choose to open with Andre Russell, it will be an obvious tactical move that may result in a large amount of power play destruction or possibly total failure. If Russell is chosen to open he will clearly show the intent to the opposition (VR) and their ability to destroy the opposition in the first six overs; however, this would also force defensive field placements early into the innings due to Russell’s aggressive batting style against VR’s quality fast bowlers, which could allow for more scoring opportunities as the innings progresses.

Middle Order Designed to Absorb and Explode

Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran, and Laurie Evans will be 3-4-5 for D G, and they will do what most T10 franchises can’t – provide options to the top order. If the openers fall quickly, then Stoinis has a temperament that will ensure that the team does not get completely exposed; while Pooran will become the deadliest hitter of the middle overs with a base to launch from; while Evans provides a finisher’s style that is often overlooked as a good tempo reader who is far more than just a boundary hunter.

The All-Rounder Spine as Insurance Policy

DG has a protective blanket with the inclusion of Russell, Stoinis, David Wiese & Aayan Afzal Khan in the same XI. They now have an extra six bowling options and four possible batsmen, all engines that can be called upon at the later stages of the game, particularly when the Zayed pitch starts to slow down. The ability of Wiese to vary his pace in the overs between 5–8 could ultimately decide this game. Aayan, whose left arm orthodox seam bowling will be a nightmare to face during Abu Dhabi’s grip phases, will also be a great source of discomfort for the opposition during the middle-overs.

Bowling Unit Built to Disrupt Rather Than Defend

When there is an early skid on the ball followed by a late stall, DG’s bowling selection has to make a call: select Muhammad Jawadullah or Luke Wood with extreme left arm pace, Jake Ball with skiddy right arm variation, and Noor Ahmad for wrist spin strangulation of the batter. The four different trajectory lines will cause the hitter to never have a visual rhythmic feel for how the bowler is going to deliver the next ball – it could be at the same spot as before, but at a much faster speed. It may also be that Noor’s spell can be the turning point; If he can pick up one wicket, normally he will pick up another.

Key Takeaway

DG doesn’t need more power; they need the courage to use their power in the right order.

FAQs

What makes this XI ideal for Abu Dhabi conditions?

Because it balances early hitting with middle-overs control and late-overs variation.

Why is Aayan Afzal Khan crucial to team balance?

His spin offers control when the pitch slows — something pace can’t always provide.

How can DG lose even with this strong XI?

By panicking on batting positions or bowling matchups instead of sticking to plan.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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