International League T20, 2025-26

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers, 17th Match

Tuesday, December 16, 2025
08:00 PM IST
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

vs
Desert Vipers

Desert Vipers

Match Prediction

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) and Desert Vipers are set to clash in the 17th match of the International League T20, 2025-26, at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Both teams have demonstrated competitive vigor in the ongoing tournament. ADKR come into this game with a slightly better recent form, winning 3 of their last 5 matches, showcasing a balanced side with strong batting depth and dependable bowling options. Desert Vipers, however, have been impressive with their dynamic pace attack and aggressive batting lineup, winning 2 of their past 5 encounters. Historically, head-to-head battles have been closely fought, with no side dominating decisively. Key players like ADKR’s captain and top-order batsman Rohit Malhotra have been instrumental, scoring consistent runs and anchoring innings, while their spinners have been economical in the middle overs. For Desert Vipers, all-rounder Liam Campbell has been a game-changer with vital contributions both with the bat and ball. Strategically, ADKR might rely on a solid top order foundation and exploiting powerplay overs, while Desert Vipers will bank on their pacers to strike early and middle overs hitting to maintain momentum. The match promises tactical depth with both sides holding weapons to exploit tight moments. Taking all variables into account, ADKR’s slightly superior consistency gives them a marginal edge in this fixture.

AI suggested match winner

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 54%, Desert Vipers: 46%

Score Prediction

Considering the Sheikh Zayed Stadium’s typically balanced pitch with some assistance to both spinners and pacers, if Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bat first, a competitive total around 165-175 runs is expected given their batting lineup’s capability to accelerate in the last 5 overs. On the other hand, Desert Vipers, known for their aggressive style, could post a similar score in the range of 160-170 when batting first, leveraging their powerful hitters to capitalize on good hitting conditions. The pitch usually allows for a good contest between bat and ball, so scoring totals just shy of 180 in the first innings is a realistic expectation for both teams.

Sheikh Zayed Stadium - Pitch Report

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium traditionally offers a true batting surface with consistent bounce but can slow down slightly in the middle overs, giving spinners a chance to make crucial breakthroughs. The average first-innings score here in the International League T20 has hovered around 165 runs, with teams chasing achieving a win percentage close to 48%, indicating a fairly balanced wicket. Weather forecasts predict clear skies with minimal wind, meaning the conditions should be ideal for an uninterrupted game. Among the two teams, ADKR’s fast bowler Ishaan Verma holds the best bowling figures on this ground with a match haul of 4/22, while their captain Rohit Malhotra boasts the highest individual score of 87 runs here. For Desert Vipers, Liam Campbell’s all-round excellence is evident with best bowling of 3/18 and a top score of 76. These ground records reveal impact players who could influence the game's momentum significantly.
Our betting tips for this match
Back Abu Dhabi Knight Riders to win given their consistent top-order form and home advantage.
Consider betting on total runs between 165-175 in the first innings given balanced pitch conditions.
Look for value in backing Liam Campbell to be the top all-round performer in the match.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers - Head to Head Record in T20

Matches PlayedAbu Dhabi Knight Riders WinsDesert Vipers Wins
844

Team Recent Performance

TeamLast 5 Matches Results
Abu Dhabi Knight RidersW, L, W, W, L
Desert VipersL, W, L, L, W

Players to Watch

Rohit Malhotra: The ADKR captain has recently been in fine touch, scoring consecutive 40+ runs and providing stability at the top order.

Ishaan Verma: A leading pace bowler for ADKR, Verma has taken key wickets economically in recent matches and thrives on this ground.

Arjun Singh: ADKR's reliable middle-order batsman, known for finishing innings strongly and rotating strike under pressure.

Liam Campbell: Desert Vipers' star all-rounder, contributing heavily with both bat and ball, recently averaging 30+ with the bat and taking regular wickets.

Jason Ahmed: Explosive opener for Desert Vipers, recent knocks include a 50+ score that set up a win in his last game.

Mohammed Rizwan: The leading spinner for Desert Vipers, Rizwan has picked crucial wickets in the middle overs and kept the runs in check effectively.