Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers

The ILT20 2025 is off to a dramatic start, and it’s now time for Match 2, where Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) will take on the Desert Vipers (DV) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Both teams are looking to make a strong start to the season, and with star-studded squads featuring some of the biggest names in T20 cricket, fans can expect a highly competitive clash. Here’s everything you need to know before making your Dream11 fantasy team for ADKR vs DV.

Match Details: ADKR vs DV, Match 2, ILT20 2025

• Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025
• Time: 3:30 PM IST / 12:00 PM Local Time
• Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
• Live Broadcast & Streaming: FanCode App and Website, Zee Network

Pitch Report: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium traditionally offers assistance to both batters and spinners. The outfield is quick, and the ball travels to the boundary with ease. However, as the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, making it difficult for pacers to extract movement. Spinners will find some assistance, especially in the middle overs, and can take control of the game.

Pitch Insights: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers

• Average First Innings Score: 155
• Pace vs Spin:
  • Pace: 78 wickets in 235.1 overs (Economy: 8.92, Average: 26.89)
  • Spin: 56 wickets in 160.5 overs (Economy: 6.68, Average: 19.19)

Expect a par score of 150-160, and teams might prefer chasing due to the history of six successful run chases in the last 11 matches at this venue.

Weather Report: Abu Dhabi

The weather forecast in Abu Dhabi for January 12 suggests clear skies with minimal chances of rain. The temperature will hover around 24°C, and players can expect a steady breeze due to the open stadium structure.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) Team Preview

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will look to make an impact in their opening match after reaching the Eliminators in ILT20 2024. They have a strong core of experienced players, including Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Joe Clarke, who can turn the game on its head. The team will aim to improve on their batting consistency, which was a concern last season.

Probable Playing XI for ADKR:

1. Phil Salt
2. Sunil Narine (c)
3. Joe Clarke (wk)
4. Kyle Mayers
5. Laurie Evans
6. Sharafu
7. Michael Pepper
8. Andre Russell
9. Jason Holder
10. David Willey
11. Iqbal

Key Players to Watch for ADKR:

• Andre Russell: A game-changer with both bat and ball, Russell’s all-round abilities make him a must-have player in your fantasy team.
• Sunil Narine: The mystery spinner continues to trouble batters around the world, and his captaincy experience will be key.
• Phil Salt: A consistent top-order batter who can anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.

Desert Vipers (DV) Team Preview

The Desert Vipers had a disappointing campaign in ILT20 2024, finishing fifth on the points table. They’ll be eager to bounce back this season under the leadership of Lockie Ferguson. With explosive batters like Alex Hales and Fakhar Zaman at the top, and world-class bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga and Mohammad Amir, the Vipers have the potential to dominate any opposition.

Probable Playing XI for DV:

1. Alex Hales
2. Fakhar Zaman
3. Dan Lawrence
4. Sherfane Rutherford
5. Ali Naseer
6. Sam Curran
7. T Suri
8. Lockie Ferguson
9. Mohammad Amir
10. Nathan Sowter
11. Luke Wood

Key Players to Watch for DV:

• Alex Hales: Coming off a sensational century in the Bangladesh Premier League, Hales is in red-hot form. He is a match-winner who can score big.
• Wanindu Hasaranga: The Sri Lankan all-rounder is one of the best T20 spinners in the world and can also contribute with the bat.
• Mohammad Amir: The left-arm pacer can be lethal with the new ball, especially if the conditions offer any swing.

Head-to-Head Record: ADKR vs DV: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers

Matches Played: 3

ADKR Wins: 2

DV Wins: 1

Best Dream11 team & Dream11 Prediction for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers

Where to Watch ADKR vs DV, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers Live?

The match will be broadcast live on Zee Network and can also be streamed on the FanCode app and website.