Gulf Giants will aim to return to winning ways when they lock horns with Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in their sixth match of the inaugural International League T20 (ILT20) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, January 25.

After winning their first four matches in the ongoing T20 tournament, the James Vince-led Giants suffered their first defeat against the Sharjah Warriors at the same venue on Monday.

The Giants rode on an impressive bowling performance to restrict the Warriors to 151/7 in their 20 overs. However, the batters had an off day as they were bowled out for 130 in 19.4 overs, succumbing to a 21-run loss.

With eight points from five matches, the Adani Sportline-owned outfit is currently placed at the top of the ILT20 2023 standings and will look to bounce back against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in Dubai.

On the other hand, the Sunil Narine-led Knight Riders have struggled in the inaugural ILT20, losing all their five matches so far. 

Narine’s men are the only team to yet register a victory in the tournament as they are currently languishing at the bottom of the six-team standings.

The Knight Riders head into the game after suffering a five-wicket defeat against the MI Emirates at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Gulf Giants vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders head-to-head

Gulf Giants defeated Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by six wickets in their only meeting in ILT20 2023.

Opting to bat first, the Knight Riders posted 114/9 in their allotted 20 overs, courtesy Andre Russell’s 12-ball 26 and Paul Stirling’s run-a-ball 20.

In reply, the Giants rode on captain Vince’s scintillating knock of 65 runs off 44 balls to chase down the target in 14.2 overs.

Going by their recent form and head-to-head record, the Giants will start as clear favourites to do the double over the Knight Riders in the ongoing ILT20 on Wednesday.