The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the fourth season of the International League T20 (ILT20). The Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host the grand final on Sunday, where the defending champions MI Emirates will lock horns with the formidable Desert Vipers. Both teams have navigated contrasting paths to reach this pinnacle, setting up a contest rich with narrative and high stakes.
Contrasting Roads to the Final
MI Emirates, the UAE franchise of the Mumbai Indians, experienced a roller-coaster campaign. They began the season inconsistently, securing only two victories in their opening five matches. However, showcasing the characteristic fighting spirit of the MI brand, they staged a remarkable comeback by winning five consecutive games to storm into the playoffs. After a setback in the first Qualifier, they regrouped to book their ticket to the final.
In stark contrast, the Desert Vipers have been the model of consistency this season. Led by England's Sam Curran, who took over the captaincy after an injury to Lockie Ferguson, the Vipers started with a stunning six-match winning streak. They secured their playoff berth with ease and then demonstrated their dominance by defeating MI Emirates in Qualifier 1 to advance directly.
Captains' Perspectives: Experience vs. Process
Ahead of the high-pressure clash, both captains shared their thoughts. Sam Curran, who is also the tournament's second-highest run-scorer with 323 runs, reflected on the Vipers' past final losses in 2023 and 2025. "You take learnings, but it's a new season, completely different players... I guess we stick to the process. Last year we lost a close game," said Curran. He emphasized the unique challenge of finals: "Finals are always different — the pressure, the crowd, the occasion — but that’s what you play for."
MI Emirates skipper Kieron Pollard, a veteran of numerous T20 title wins across leagues like the IPL, SA20, and MLC, acknowledged the value of experience but focused on the present. "You can say it counts, yes, but again, it's different players at different times... I'm just happy that the guys have rallied and gotten to this point," stated Pollard. His advice to the team was simple: "I want them to just enjoy the experience of playing in a final."
Key Players to Watch in the Summit Clash
The final promises a battle of match-winners. For the Desert Vipers, all eyes will be on captain Sam Curran, the reigning Red Belt (MVP) winner. Explosive batter Andries Gous is another major threat, especially after his match-winning, unbeaten 120 in the Qualifier.
The local fans will be rallying behind UAE opener Muhammad Waseem. He has been in phenomenal touch, leading the Green Belt (most runs) and Blue Belt (best UAE player) standings with 344 runs. He is also on the cusp of winning the Blue Belt for an unprecedented fourth consecutive time. Pollard praised the UAE contingent, saying, "What we’ve seen from the UAE players over the past few seasons has been outstanding... Seeing them step up and perform consistently at this level is encouraging."
The head-to-head record adds an extra layer of intrigue. In the seven matches played between these two sides, the Desert Vipers hold a slight edge with four wins compared to MI Emirates' three victories. However, MI Emirates are the defending champions, having triumphed in the 2024 edition, while the Vipers are desperate to shed their runners-up tag after two previous final losses. The scene is perfectly set for a classic encounter in Dubai.
