Wed Feb 05 18:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Dubai Capitals Edge Out Desert Vipers in Thriller to Reach ILT20 Final
**Dubai, UAE** – In a nail-biting finish to the ILT20 Qualifier 1, the Dubai Capitals defeated the Desert Vipers by 5 wickets, securing their place in the final. Chasing a challenging 190-run target, the Capitals found themselves needing 12 runs from the final over. Despite losing Gulbadin Naib (52*) in the tense final stages, Sikandar Raza held his nerve, guiding his team to victory on the very last ball.
The Desert Vipers, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, posted a formidable 189/7 thanks to a blistering 76 off 32 balls from Alex Hales. Max Holden (36) and Daniel Lawrence (35) also contributed significantly to the total. Qais Ahmad and Gulbadin Naib claimed two wickets each for the Capitals.
The Capitals’ chase was punctuated by both exhilarating strokeplay and moments of tension. Adam Rossington (44) and Shai Hope (17) provided a solid start, followed by a crucial 47-run partnership between Rovman Powell (20) and Naib. Sam Billings also played a crucial cameo, scoring a quickfire 38 before being run out. The Capitals kept the required run rate under control throughout much of the innings, but the final stages created high drama.
The thrilling victory sets up a final clash for the Dubai Capitals, leaving the Desert Vipers to fight for a second chance in the Qualifier 2.
First Piper 