Sun Jan 04 14:40:00 UTC 2026: ## Desert Vipers Clinch ILT20 Title, Curran Stars with Unbeaten 74
Dubai, UAE – The Desert Vipers secured their maiden International League T20 (ILT20) title with a dominant 46-run victory over MI Emirates on Sunday. England all-rounder Sam Curran spearheaded the Vipers’ triumph with a masterful unbeaten 74, finishing the tournament as the leading run-scorer with 397.
After being put in to bat, the Vipers recovered from an early wobble thanks to Curran’s anchoring innings. He formed crucial partnerships with Max Holden (41) and Dan Lawrence (23), propelling the Vipers to a competitive total. Curran’s 51-ball knock included eight boundaries and two towering sixes.
MI Emirates, the 2024 champions, faltered in their chase, losing wickets at regular intervals. Pakistan’s Naseem Shah was instrumental with the ball, claiming key wickets including that of Tom Banton, who had shone in Qualifier 2. The MI Emirates batting lineup never recovered and were eventually bowled out for 136 in 18.3 overs. Waqar Salamkheil of Afghanistan and Ajay Kumar of the UAE concluded the tournament as joint top wicket-takers, each claiming 18 scalps.
Curran’s brilliant all-round performance capped off a memorable tournament for the Desert Vipers, securing them their first ILT20 title in convincing fashion.
First Piper 