The Desert Vipers opened their DP World ILT20 Development Tournament campaign stunningly, pulling off a nail-biting one-wicket victory against the Dubai Capitals at the ICC Academy. The contest went right down to the last ball, with impact player Taimoor Ali holding his nerve to deliver a dramatic finish.

Dubai Capitals post 210/6

Batting first, the Capitals piled on a challenging 210 for six, setting up what looked like a match-winning total. But the Vipers’ bowlers struck at crucial stages, with UAE all-rounder Ali Naseer starring with the ball. He claimed 4 for 28 in four overs, applying the brakes to the scoring in the middle overs.

Vipers’ chase led by Suri, Keswani and Ali

In reply, Vipers captain and wicketkeeper-batter Tanish Suri gave his side a solid start, compiling a fluent 35 off 25 balls. The chase stayed alive thanks to a quick cameo from Nilansh Keswani, who smashed 22 off just nine deliveries, including two huge sixes.

But the decisive moment came with the arrival of Taimoor Ali as an impact player. Walking in with the game in the balance, Ali unleashed a stunning counterattack, blasting an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls, featuring two fours and six sixes. His clean hitting turned the tide, as the Vipers steadily closed in on the target.

Final-ball drama

The game came down to the wire, with the Vipers needing runs off the final delivery. Ali, calm under pressure, finished the job to secure victory by just one wicket, sparking wild celebrations in the Vipers’ dugout.

What’s next

The ILT20 Development Tournament runs until 3 September, with the final also set to be staged at the ICC Academy. Beyond the immediate silverware, the tournament serves as a crucial platform for UAE talent, giving players the chance to break into DP World ILT20 franchises, the UAE national team, and other global T20 leagues.

The Desert Vipers will be buoyed by their thrilling opening win, while the Dubai Capitals will be left ruing missed chances in a game that went down as one of the most exciting finishes of the competition so far.

Match Scorecard

Dubai Capitals – 210/6 (20 overs)

• Other contributions: The Team posted a strong total with partnerships across the order
• Best bowler (Vipers): Ali Naseer – 4/28 (4 overs)

Desert Vipers – 211/9 (20 overs)

• Taimoor Ali – 59 (28 balls, 2 fours, 6 sixes)*
• Tanish Suri – 35 (25 balls)
• Nilansh Keswani – 22 (9 balls, 2 sixes)
• Won by 1 wicket (off the final ball)

Result: Desert Vipers won by 1 wicket