Gulf Giants have started the third season of the DP World ILT20 on a tough note, losing their second consecutive game. The Desert Vipers showcased their strength and defeated us by 6 wickets in a low-scoring match held in Dubai. Although the tournament has just begun, we have a long road ahead, and we are confident that we will bounce back soon.

The game didn’t get off to a great start for us as we lost Adam Lyth in the very first over. Rehan Ahmed and James Vince tried to build a partnership, but it was cut short when Rehan was dismissed by Lockie Ferguson with the score at 23. We kept losing wickets, and at one point, our score read 50 for 6, making it look like we might be bowled out for under 100. However, our captain James Vince held one end and kept the scoreboard moving. He played a magnificent innings, remaining not out on 76, and helped us reach 119.

In the bowling innings, Mark Adair gave us a perfect start by dismissing Fakhar Zaman and Dan Lawrence in the second over, bringing us right back into the game. Sam Curran and Alex Hales then built a 49-run partnership, stabilizing things for the Vipers. Blessing Muzarabani gave us hope by removing Alex Hales for 20. Tymal Mills followed by dismissing Azam Khan, keeping us in the hunt. However, Sam Curran kept his composure, and Sherfane Rutherford finished the job, smashing 40 runs off just 18 balls, guiding the Vipers to victory in the 18th over. Mark Adair stood out with the ball, taking 2 wickets and giving away only 12 runs in his 4 overs.

It wasn’t the result we hoped for, but we still have plenty of time to fight back in this tournament. Our next game is on January 18th against Dubai Capitals. It will be an exciting challenge as we look to get our first win in season 3 of the ILT20. It won’t be easy, but we are ready to face the challenge in the upcoming match.