ILT20 2025–26 | Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates Match Prediction | Final | Jan 04 – Who will win DV vs MIE?

Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates – Final Match Prediction

The Final of International League T20 2025–26 will see Desert Vipers take on MI Emirates on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The championship clash is scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM local time.

MI Emirates have reached the final with a deep and versatile squad packed with international quality. Their batting lineup features Jonny Bairstow, Tom Banton, Andre Fletcher, Usman Khan, and Kamindu Mendis, providing both aggression at the top and stability through the middle. The all-round strength of Shakib Al Hasan, Romario Shepherd, and Chris Woakes gives them balance in pressure situations. In bowling, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Muhammad Waseem, AM Ghazanfar, and Zahoor Khan offer a potent mix of pace, swing, and control, making MI Emirates a well-rounded unit for a final.

Desert Vipers have been one of the most consistent sides of the tournament. Their batting core includes Fakhar Zaman, Shimron Hetmyer, Sam Curran, Dan Lawrence, Leus de Plooy, and Vriitya Aravind, capable of posting or chasing big totals. The presence of multi-skilled players like Sam Curran and Tom Bruce strengthens both departments. Their bowling attack is a major strength, led by Lockie Ferguson, Naseem Shah, Qais Ahmad, Noor Ahmad, and David Payne, combining raw pace with quality spin to challenge any batting lineup.

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium surface is usually batting-friendly, especially under lights, but bowlers who vary pace and hit hard lengths can be effective. A first-innings score between 175 and 190 is expected to be competitive in this high-pressure final.

Expert Prediction: MI Emirates hold a 52% chance of winning due to their superior all-round depth and big-match experience, while Desert Vipers have a 48% chance thanks to their disciplined bowling attack and consistent top order.