DUBAI: Desert Vipers made a winning start to the DP World ILT20 season on Tuesday with a four-wicket victory over defending champions Dubai Capitals at Dubai International Stadium, ending a six-match losing streak against their rivals and avenging last season’s final defeat.
A disciplined bowling display restricted the Capitals to 150 for 8 after the Vipers elected to bowl first, with Noor Ahmad, David Payne and Khuzaima Tanveer claiming two wickets apiece.
In reply, a fluent half-century from Andries Gous anchored the chase as the Vipers reached their target in 19 overs, recording their 21st win in the competition, the most by any team.
Openers Fakhar Zaman and Gous gave the Vipers early momentum with a brisk 50-run stand before Zaman departed for 26. Gous continued to dominate, reaching his 50 from 32 balls with six fours and two sixes.
Though quick wickets briefly delayed the finish, Dan Lawrence and Tanveer safely steered the side home.
Earlier, Dubai Capitals slipped to 32 for 3 inside the powerplay, with Rovman Powell’s 39 and Mohammad Nabi’s 29 providing late resistance. Despite their efforts, the Capitals were unable to push beyond a modest total.
Player of the match Gous said: “It was a bit slow up front, but it started to get better when we were batting. I’ve come in with confidence, so it is something I want to keep going. It’s good to get that first 50 behind (me) as we go into the rest of the tournament. There are some very good teams.”
Capitals’ captain Dasun Shanaka reflected on the defeat, saying his team were not up to the mark. He added: “We need to hold our line and length (as) 150-160 is the par score here. Hopefully we can come up with better plans next time.”
The season four opener also marked the first outing for squads finalized on Tuesday following October’s inaugural player auction, with all six franchises assembling balanced lineups combining international stars with UAE and associate nation talent, including from Saudi Arabia, under the league’s squad composition regulations.
