Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriors in a crucial ILT20 2025 clash! Read our in-depth match analysis, key player battles, head-to-head stats, and winner prediction for Match 27.
The International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 season is reaching its boiling point! As we inch closer to the playoffs, every single run and wicket counts. Tonight, the spotlight turns to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium where the Dubai Capitals are set to lock horns with the Sharjah Warriors in the 27th match of the tournament.
Whether you are a fantasy cricket enthusiast or a die-hard fan cheering from the stands, this clash promises fireworks. The Capitals are looking to solidify their playoff spot, while the Warriors are fighting for pride and a late surge. Let’s dive deep into what to expect from this high-voltage encounter.
Match Details
- Fixture: Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriors (27th Match)
- Tournament: International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26
- Date: Today, December 24, 2025
- Time: 6:30 PM Local Time (8:00 PM IST / 2:30 PM GMT)
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
Pitch Report: What to Expect in Dubai
The surface at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has traditionally been a paradise for chasers, especially in evening games where the dew factor often comes into play. However, the 2025 season has seen pitches offering a bit more balance.
- Batting: Expect the ball to come onto the bat nicely during the powerplay. A score of 170+ is generally considered competitive here.
- Bowling: Pacers might find some initial movement, but the real game-changers will be the spinners in the middle overs. As the game progresses, grip might decrease if dew sets in, making the second innings batting slightly easier.
Toss Prediction: The captain winning the toss will almost certainly look to bowl first to have a clear target in mind and capitalize on the dew later in the night.
Team Preview: Dubai Capitals
The Dubai Capitals have had a roller-coaster season but have found momentum at the right time. Led by the experienced Mohammad Nabi, they boast a squad that is dangerous on paper and on the field.
Key Players to Watch:
- Rovman Powell: The West Indian powerhouse is the backbone of their middle order. If he gets going, no boundary is big enough.
- Mustafizur Rahman: “The Fizz” has been lethal with his cutters this season, making him difficult to score off in the death overs.
- David Willey: His swing with the new ball can dismantle top orders early.
Likely Strategy: They will rely on their all-round depth. With players like James Neesham and Nabi, they have the luxury of batting deep, allowing their top order to play freely.
Team Preview: Sharjah Warriors
The Sharjah Warriors have had a tough campaign, currently sitting at the lower end of the points table. However, under the leadership of Sikandar Raza, they remain a threat capable of upsetting any giant.
Key Players to Watch:
- Johnson Charles: Explosive at the top, he can take the game away in the first six overs.
- Adil Rashid: The leg-spin wizard is crucial for Sharjah. If he can spin a web around the Capitals’ middle order, the Warriors have a fighting chance.
- Dinesh Karthik: The veteran finisher brings calm and experience, essential for tight chases.
Likely Strategy: Sharjah needs early wickets. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by Tim Southee and Adil Rashid, must strike in the powerplay to put pressure on the Capitals’ heavy batting lineup.
Predicted Playing XIs (Probable)
Dubai Capitals: Sediqullah Atal, Shayan Jahangir (wk), Jordan Cox, Rovman Powell, Mohammad Nabi (c), James Neesham, David Willey, Gulbadin Naib, Mustafizur Rahman, Waqar Salamkheil, Haider Ali.
Sharjah Warriors: Johnson Charles, Monank Patel, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sikandar Raza (c), Dinesh Karthik, James Rew (wk), Tim Southee, Adil Rashid, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah, Nathan Sowter.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
While T20 cricket is unpredictable, the Dubai Capitals start as favorites. They have a more balanced side and are in better form compared to the Warriors. Their batting depth and variety in bowling give them a distinct edge, especially at their home ground. However, if Sharjah’s top order fires, we could be in for a surprise.
Prediction: Dubai Capitals to win.
DC vs SW Dream11 Prediction: Expert Fantasy Team
It is time to build our fantasy squad for the Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriors match. Based on the Dubai pitch report which favors chasing and spin in the middle overs, here is the best combination for today’s match.
The “Safe Play” Team (Small Leagues)
This team is designed for head-to-head contests where you need consistent points.
| Category | Players Selected |
| Wicket-Keepers | Johnson Charles, Jordan Cox |
| Batters | Rovman Powell, Tom Kohler-Cadmore |
| All-Rounders | Sikandar Raza (Captain), David Willey (VC), M. Nabi, J. Neesham |
| Bowlers | Adil Rashid, Tim Southee, Mustafizur Rahman |
Strategy Note:
- Captain: Sikandar Raza is selected because he bowls 4 overs and bats in the top 4.
- Vice-Captain: David Willey is chosen for his new-ball swing ability.
The “High Risk” Team (Grand Leagues)
If you are aiming for the mega prize, try this risky combination that relies on Dubai Capitals dominating the game.
- Captain: Rovman Powell (High risk, high reward if he hits 4-5 sixes)
- Vice-Captain: Adil Rashid (If the pitch turns, he can take 3+ wickets)
- Key Change: Drop Tom Kohler-Cadmore and pick a extra bowler like Waqar Salamkheil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where can I watch the Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriors match live? In India, the match will be telecast live on Zee Network channels and streamed on the Zee5 app. For international viewers, check your local sports listings for ILT20 broadcasters.
Q2: What is the average first innings score in Dubai this season? The average first innings score in Dubai for the 2025 season has been hovering around 165-175 runs.
Q3: Who is the captain of Dubai Capitals? The Dubai Capitals are captained by the veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi.
Q4: Is the match heavily affected by dew? Yes, evening matches in Dubai in December often see dew, which makes gripping the ball difficult for bowlers in the second innings.
Conclusion
As the clock ticks down to 8:00 PM IST, the stage is set for a thrilling contest. Will the Dubai Capitals cement their playoff berth, or will the Sharjah Warriors play spoilsport? Make sure to tune in, because if there’s one thing the ILT20 guarantees, it’s edge-of-the-seat entertainment!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Squads and playing XIs are subject to change after the toss.
