Cricket Highlights, February 05: International League T20 2025 (1st Qualifier) – DV vs DC

DV vs DC (1st Qualifier) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling Qualifier 1 clash of the International League T20 between DV and DC, held on February 5, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The DV vs DC high-stakes encounter saw Desert Vipers posting a competitive total of 189/7 in their 20 overs, thanks to some crucial contributions from their middle order. 

However, Dubai Capitals showcased remarkable composure in their chase, reaching the target of 190 in the final delivery of the innings. With a five-wicket victory and no balls to spare, Dubai Capitals secured their spot in the final, while Desert Vipers now await their fate in the next knockout fixture. Let’s dive deeper into the key moments and performances that defined this intense battle.

DV innings got off to a shaky start as wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed for just 1 run in the first over, caught behind off Farhan Khan. However, Alex Hales took charge of the innings with an attacking display, smashing 67 runs off just 32 balls at an incredible strike rate of 209.37. His innings included five boundaries and six towering sixes, putting the Capitals’ bowlers under immense pressure. Hales received good support from Max Holden, who played a solid 36 off 26 balls before being dismissed by Qais Ahmad.

Dan Lawrence continued the momentum with a fluent 35 off 25 balls, ensuring the Vipers kept up the run rate. Sam Curran chipped in with a crucial 24 off 21 balls, but wickets at regular intervals halted their progress. Sherfane Rutherford (4) and Wanindu Hasaranga (3) failed to make a significant impact, while Khuzaima Tanveer provided some fireworks at the end with an unbeaten 15 off just five balls, helping Desert Vipers reach 189/7 in their 20 overs.

For DC, Qais Ahmad was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 2/29 in four overs. Gulbadin Naib also chipped in with two wickets, while Farhan Khan, Obed McCoy, and Dushmantha Chameera claimed one wicket each.

Chasing a challenging target of 190, Dubai Capitals started aggressively, with Adam Rossington leading the charge. He smashed 44 off 31 balls, hitting eight boundaries before being dismissed by Lockie Ferguson. His opening partner, Shai Hope, played a steady innings of 17 off 17 balls but failed to accelerate, falling to Wanindu Hasaranga in the seventh over.

With Dubai Capitals at 67/2, Gulbadin Naib took the responsibility of anchoring the chase. The all-rounder played a brilliant knock, scoring 62 off 39 balls, striking seven boundaries and a six. His partnership with captain Sam Billings was the turning point of the match. Billings played a sensational innings, smashing 38 off just 16 balls, including five fours and two sixes at a remarkable strike rate of 237.50. His aggressive batting shifted the momentum completely in Dubai Capitals’ favor.

Rovman Powell added 20 off 13 balls before falling in the 18th over, leaving Dubai Capitals needing 26 runs from 14 balls. Naib kept his composure but fell in the penultimate over, with Dubai Capitals still requiring one big hit to seal the game. Dasun Shanaka (4*) and Sikandar Raza (4* off 1) held their nerve and ensured the team crossed the finish line in the final delivery of the match, securing a spot in the final.

Desert Vipers vs Dubai Capitals Scoreboard

Desert Vipers – 189/7

Dubai Capitals– 193/5(20/20)

Result – DC won by 5 wickets (with 0 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Gulbadin Naib

DV vs DC Playing Eleven

Desert Vipers

Rahmanullah Gurbaz(WK), Alex Hales, Max Holden, Dan Lawrence, Sam Curran, Sherfane Rutherford, Wanindu Hasaranga, Khuzaima Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson(C), Dhruv Parashar, Mohammad Amir, David Payne

Dubai Capitals

Adam Rossington, Shai Hope(WK), Gulbadin Naib, Sam Billings(C), Rovman Powell, Dasun Shanaka, Sikandar Raza, Dushmantha Chameera, Farhan Khan, Haider Ali, Qais Ahmad

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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