By Anas Ahmed 
In a commanding performance at the Dubai International Stadium, the Dubai Capitals snapped the Desert Vipers’ winning streak with a decisive six-wicket triumph. The victory was anchored by Gulbadin Naib’s explosive 78 off 51 balls and stellar bowling displays from Dushmantha Chameera and Zahir Khan, who each claimed three crucial wickets.
Vipers’ Batting Struggles
Opting to bat first, the Vipers looked strong initially, posting 48/1 at the end of the powerplay. Fakhar Zaman set the tone with a quick six and four before being bowled by Chameera. Dan Lawrence and Alex Hales then built a 58-run partnership, giving the Vipers a promising platform. However, the Capitals seized control in the middle overs. The dismissals of Hales, Lawrence, and Sam Curran in quick succession left the Vipers reeling at 80/4.
Despite Sherfane Rutherford’s late 27 off 24 balls, the Vipers were restricted to 139, with Zahir Khan taking down the tailenders Azam Khan and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Capitals’ Chase Led by Naib
The chase began on a rocky note for the Capitals, with Lockie Ferguson picking up Ben Dunk and Khalid Shah early, reducing them to 17/2. A mix-up saw Shai Hope run out, increasing the pressure. However, Naib’s resilience and aggression turned the tide. After an early reprieve, he launched a counter-attack, hitting Nathan Sowter for three sixes, easing the Capitals’ nerves.
Naib, alongside Sikandar Raza, built a 50-run stand, setting the stage for a comfortable finish. Even after Raza’s departure for 24, Naib continued his onslaught, steering the Capitals home with Najibullah Zadran as they sealed the victory in 17.4 overs.
Post-Match Reactions
Player of the Match, Gulbadin Naib, reflected on the win, stating, “We needed momentum. Facing quality bowlers wasn’t easy, but I stayed calm and played to my strengths after getting support from the coaching staff.”
Desert Vipers captain, Lockie Ferguson, acknowledged the defeat, saying, “We were a few runs short. They bowled well, and the pitch offered turn. Our batting has been strong, and we’ll look to bounce back quickly.”
Key Takeaways
- Gulbadin Naib’s standout performance with the bat led the Capitals to victory.
- The Capitals’ bowlers, particularly Chameera and Zahir Khan, played pivotal roles in restricting the Vipers.
- Despite the loss, the Vipers remain a formidable force, with lessons to learn for their upcoming matches.
Brief Scores:
Desert Vipers 139/10 in 19.5 overs (Alex Hales 34, Sherfane Rutherford 27, Dan Lawrence 24, Dushmantha Chameera 3 for 26, Zahir Khan 3 for 34, Haider Ali 1 for 17)
Dubai Capitals 140/4 in 17.4 overs (Gulbadin Naib 78 not out, Sikandar 24, Ben Dunk 13, Lockie Ferguson 2 for 29, Mohammad Amir 1 for 31)
Player of the Match: Gulbadin Naib
Dubai Capitals beat Desert Vipers by six wickets
Zainab Shafiq