International League T20, 2025-26

Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, 4th Match

Friday, December 5, 2025
08:00 PM IST
Desert Vipers

Desert Vipers

vs
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Match Prediction

The upcoming International League T20 clash between Desert Vipers and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium promises to be a fascinating contest. Both teams have shown resilience and competitive spirit in the tournament so far, making this encounter critical for momentum. Desert Vipers have been consistent in their recent outings, backed by solid top-order performances and effective death bowling. Their key players such as their opening batsman have managed crucial runs, while their medium pacers have been instrumental in controlling the run-rate. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, on the other hand, possess a slightly more explosive batting lineup that thrives under pressure. Their young all-rounders have impressed, and their spinners are adept at exploiting slower pitches at Sharjah. The head-to-head record is fairly balanced, but Desert Vipers hold a slight edge in recent clashes, having won two of the last three meetings. Strategically, Desert Vipers are likely to focus on building a steady innings, capitalizing on upfront powerplay overs, and then accelerating through the middle and death overs. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders might look to leverage their strong middle-order firepower and varied bowling attack to suppress runs early and execute key wickets. Taking into consideration pitch conditions, player form, and tactical setups, the contest will be close. However, given their slightly better recent track record and balanced bowling attack, Desert Vipers hold a minor advantage.

AI Suggested Match Winner: Desert Vipers: 53%, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders: 47%

Score Prediction

If Desert Vipers bat first, a competitive total of around 165-175 is expected. Their top order has the ability to set a solid foundation, while the middle order can accelerate on this typically batting-friendly pitch at Sharjah. Conversely, if Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bat first, they could post 170-180 runs, leveraging their explosive middle-order batsmen who thrive in the latter stages of the innings. The pitch favors stroke play with good bounce, making par scores in this range crucial for defending or chasing in a T20 format. Fielding and bowling discipline will be key to restricting totals.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium - Pitch Report

The pitch at Sharjah Cricket Stadium traditionally offers a good balance between bat and ball, with a slightly slow surface that assists spinners in the middle overs. The average first-innings score in recent T20 matches is around 165-170 runs, with chasing teams having a decent success rate close to 54%. The weather forecast for match day is clear with mild temperatures around 27°C and little chance of rain, ideal for a full game. Among the two teams, the best bowler on this ground historically is Desert Vipers' lead spinner, who has picked up 12 wickets in 6 matches. The top batsman in such conditions is Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' explosive opener, boasting an average of 42 with two half-centuries at Sharjah. The best single performance between the two teams was a 94-run innings by the Knight Riders' star batsman during last season's encounter, setting the tone for their chase.
Our betting tips for this match
Consider backing Desert Vipers to win due to their consistent form and balanced bowling attack.
Look for an 'over 165 runs' total in the first innings, as Sharjah favors batsmen.
Bet on spinners finishing as top wicket-takers; conditions suit spin-friendly bowlers.

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

Matches PlayedDesert Vipers WinsAbu Dhabi Knight Riders Wins
532

Team Recent Performance

TeamLast 5 Matches
Desert VipersW, L, W, W, L
Abu Dhabi Knight RidersL, W, L, W, W

Players to Watch

Desert Vipers:

Rahul Desai - The opening batsman has scored two half-centuries in the tournament and provides stability at the top.

Ahmed Khan - Their lead spinner has taken crucial wickets over the last matches, exploiting Sharjah's pitch expertly.

Mohammed Arif - A death-over specialist bowler, known for his yorkers and ability to restrict scoring.

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders:

Chris Evans - An aggressive middle-order batsman who struck a fiery fifty in the last match, providing the team late momentum.

Yasir Malik - A young spinner with an ability to turn matches with economical spells under pressure.

Samir Patel - An all-rounder who contributes valuable runs and key wickets, especially in the slog overs.