The ILT20 2025-26 season continues to heat up as the Gulf Giants (GG) prepare to take on table-toppers Desert Vipers (DV) in Match No. 12 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday, December 12. Both teams have been in terrific form this season, setting the stage for yet another gripping contest under the Dubai lights.
The Gulf Giants have enjoyed a strong start, winning three out of four games and sitting comfortably in the upper half of the points table. A win in this clash could put them firmly in contention for the top spot and strengthen their push toward the playoffs.
The Desert Vipers, meanwhile, have been flawless so far—winning all four matches. Their bowlers have been decisive, and their top order continues to deliver consistently. They will enter this match as favourites but are well aware of the threat Gulf Giants pose.
GG vs DV Match Details
| Match | Gulf Giants vs Desert Vipers – Match 12, ILT20 2025-26 |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Date & Time (IST) | Friday, December 12, 08:00 PM |
| Live Streaming | Zee Network & Zee5 App |
Dubai Weather Report
Dubai is expected to offer perfect cricketing conditions for the evening encounter. Clear skies with low humidity will make batting easier as the match progresses. Dew could become a factor in the second innings, favouring the chasing team.
| Temperature | 23°C – 26°C |
| Humidity | 50–58% |
| Rain Probability | 0% |
| Dew Factor | High after 9 PM |
Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The surface in Dubai usually starts on the slower side, making timing the ball difficult in the first few overs. Spinners and cutters into the wicket become effective as the game progresses. However, as we’ve seen in recent matches, the pitch has gradually become better for batting.
- Average first-innings score in last two matches: 157
- Captains prefer to chase
- Dew could significantly influence the second innings
A competitive total at this venue should be around 160–170 runs.
GG vs DV Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | 05 |
| Gulf Giants Wins | 00 |
| Desert Vipers Wins | 04 |
| Tied | 01 |
| First Meeting | January 23, 2024 |
| Last Meeting | December 08, 2025 |
GG vs DV – Probable Playing XIs
Gulf Giants (GG)
Pathum Nissanka, Tom Moores (wk), James Vince (c), Moeen Ali, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gerhard Erasmus, Liam Dawson, Aayan Afzal Khan, Mark Adair, Haider Razzaq, Nuwan Thushara
Desert Vipers (DV)
Fakhar Zaman, Andries Gous (wk), Max Holden, Sam Curran, Dan Lawrence, Shimron Hetmyer, Hasan Nawaz, Vriitya Aravind, Lockie Ferguson (c), Khuzaima Tanveer, Noor Ahmad
Top Key Players to Watch
Gulf Giants
- James Vince – Anchor and major run-getter at the top.
- Moeen Ali – All-round impact with bat and spin.
- Nuwan Thushara – New-ball threat with slingy pace.
Desert Vipers
- Fakhar Zaman – Aggressive opener, sets the tone early.
- Sam Curran – Crucial all-rounder in all phases.
- Lockie Ferguson – Express pace and wicket-taking ability.
Match Prediction – Who Will Win?
The Gulf Giants have been gaining momentum and their balanced unit looks ready for this challenge. While Desert Vipers remain unbeaten, the Giants’ all-round depth and comfort on Dubai’s surface could tilt the match in their favour.
Predicted Winner: Gulf Giants (GG)
Expect a tight contest but GG’s form and experience give them a slight edge.
Final Thoughts
The ILT20 continues to deliver high-quality cricket, and this clash promises to be one of the most exciting games of the tournament so far. With key playoff implications, fans can look forward to intense competition, standout individual performances, and thrilling moments under the lights in Dubai.
