DP World ILT20 2025, Match 18: Desert Vipers cruise to eight-wicket win as Hales and Curran shine against Sharjah Warriorz

Alex Hales and Sam Curran powered the Desert Vipers to a commanding eight-wicket victory over the Sharjah Warriorz, here at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Saturday, January 25. Their stunning 128-run partnership off just 65 balls turned a modest chase of 152 into a one-sided affair, with Hales smashing a 36-ball half-century and Curran following with a blistering 33-ball fifty. The duo ensured the Vipers sealed the win in 14.5 overs to inch closer to the play-offs stage.

Earlier in the Match No. 18 of the DP World ILT20 2025, David Payne set the tone for the Vipers with a sharp spell of two wickets. UAE’s Khuzaima Tanveer then ripped through the middle and lower order with an excellent four-wicket haul, while Jason Roy made a spirited contribution for the Warriorz with 55 runs in 38 balls.

Defending 151, early breakthroughs were crucial for the Warriorz, and Adam Milne delivered by removing Fakhar Zaman and Dan Lawrence within the first four overs, giving his side the ideal start.

However, Alex Hales and Sam Curran seized control of the chase.  Initially cautious, Hales shifted gears spectacularly, launching three consecutive sixes off Muhammad Jawadullah in the 13th over to bring up a 36-ball half-century. Hales finished the innings with seven fours and five sixes.

Meanwhile, Khuzaima Tanveer was exceptional as he dismantled the middle and lower order with a decisive spell. He accounted for Tim Seifert for 16 runs, Rohan Mustafa, Luke Wood, and Tim Southee, finishing with figures of four wickets for 22 runs.

Player of the Match, Khuzaima Tanveer said, “Whenever I play cricket, I truly enjoy it without feeling any pressure. The captain gave me a clear plan to hit the deck hard, and I simply executed it, which led to taking wickets. Overall, I'm really enjoying my time out there."

Brief Scores

Desert Vipers beat Sharjah Warriorz by eight wickets

Sharjah Warriorz 151/8 in 20 overs (Jason Roy 55, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 42, Tim Seifert 16, Khuzaima Tanveer 4 for 22, David Payne 2 for 33)

Desert Vipers 152/2 in 14.5 overs (Alex Hales 77 not out, Sam Curran 54 not out, Adam Milne 2 for 17)

Player of the Match: Khuzaima Tanveer