ILT20 2025-26 Final: DV vs MIE head-to-head, pitch report & predicted playing XIs

The International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26 reaches its grand finale as Desert Vipers (DV) take on MI Emirates (MIE) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, January 4.

The Desert Vipers have been the most consistent side all season. The team topped the points table with eight wins in ten matches and currently have a direct entry into the final after winning against MI Emirates in Qualifier 1. This is their second straight ILT20 final, and they will be eager to finally lift the trophy after falling short last time.

The MI Emirates had to take the longer route to the final. After losing Qualifier 1, they bounced back strongly by beating the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in Qualifier 2. The Kieron Pollard-led side now has a chance to win their second ILT20 title and will be confident after their strong knockout performance.

DV vs MIE Head-to-Head Record (T20s)

• Matches Played: 9
  
• Desert Vipers Won: 5
  
• MI Emirates Won: 4
• Tied/No Result: 0

DV vs MIE: Pitch Report

The Dubai pitch is excellent for the bowlers, especially spinners. The batsmen have to be at the crease for some time before playing the big shots. Scores of around 160 can be pretty competitive here. Teams that win the toss might opt to bowl first, as chasing has been easier under lights.

See Also: Watch: David Warner celebrates second BBL century after 14 years against Hobart Hurricanes

DV vs MIE: Predicted Playing XIs

Desert Vipers (DV):

Fakhar Zaman, Andries Gous (wk), Max Holden, Sam Curran (c), Dan Lawrence, Jason Roy, Hasan Nawaz, Vriitya Aravind, Khuzaima Tanveer, Naseem Shah, Qais Ahmad

Impact Player: David Payne

MI Emirates (MIE):

Muhammad Waseem, Dan Mousley, Tom Banton (wk), Kieron Pollard (c), Romario Shepherd, Shakib Al Hasan, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, AM Ghazanfar, Zahoor Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Arab Gul Momand

Impact Player: Andre Fletcher