String of victories count for little in final, says Dubai Capitals coach Badani

Dubai: Under the floodlights of the Dubai International Stadium, history awaits. The DP World ILT20 Season 3 final on Sunday (6pm UAE) isn’t just another match — it’s a battle for supremacy, a shot at redemption, and the ultimate reward after weeks of high-octane cricket.

With a $1 million prize pool on the line, the Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers step onto the grandest stage, each chasing their first-ever ILT20 title. One side holds a psychological edge, the other has been the team to beat all season. But in a final, past records mean nothing — it all comes down to one night, one performance, one moment of brilliance.

Capitals hold the edge, but Vipers are on the hunt

Dubai Capitals enter the final with a psychological advantage, having beaten the Desert Vipers in all five of their past encounters. But if this season has proven anything, it’s that the Vipers are a different beast. They stormed through the league stage, clinching their playoff spot early with four consecutive wins. Now, after bouncing back from a setback in Qualifier 1, they have one last hurdle to clear.

Despite their dominance over the Vipers, Capitals’ coach Hemang Badani refuses to dwell on past results.

“All numbers and stats are great when you are sitting in the commentary box and for people to talk about. But on a given day, it’s more about which team turns up and plays good cricket, and that team is going to win. So I don’t necessarily look at these numbers. All I want us to do is, as a side, play good cricket, and I’ll take whatever comes at the end.”

Capitals had a rocky start to the season, losing three straight games. Their turning point came against the Vipers, and from there, they didn’t look back — winning five of their next six matches to finish second. That winning momentum carried through to Qualifier 1, where they again got the better of the Vipers.

“It’s been a good season for us. We lost three in a row at the start, and the boys have shown tremendous resilience, good temperament, and have been in a good space,” Badani said, crediting the team management for giving players the freedom to express themselves.

Naib’s brilliance and Billings’ confidence

The Capitals fell short in last year’s final against MI Emirates, but this time, skipper Sam Billings has a key weapon in Gulbadin Naib, whose all-round brilliance has been central to their success.

Naib has amassed 376 runs and 11 wickets, making him the tournament’s top-performing all-rounder. Notably, he has scored three half-centuries in his last three encounters against the Vipers.

“Confidence is high as we have had a good run. Different people have stepped up for us throughout the competition, including star performances from Shai Hope and Gulbadin Naib, so we are looking forward to tomorrow. The atmosphere last year was phenomenal at the final, as the love for cricket is very strong in the region, and hopefully, tomorrow both teams can put on a great show,” Billings said at the official media conference.

“He has been fantastic. He has been great on the field too as he is a three-dimensional cricketer. He’s taking his opportunities out there and, hopefully, tomorrow he can put on a show for the fans.”

Vipers’ road to the final

The Vipers suffered a setback in Qualifier 1 but bounced back emphatically with a seven-wicket win over the Sharjah Warriorz to book their place in the final.

For them, Alex Hales has been the standout batter, tallying 400 runs in 12 matches, including three half-centuries. Sam Curran has provided valuable support, scoring 325 runs in 12 innings at an impressive average of 46.42.

Wanindu Hasaranga, Mohammad Amir, and Lockie Ferguson have spearheaded the bowling attack, but the Vipers will be without Hasaranga and Ferguson in the final. Hasaranga, one of the most economical bowlers this season, claimed 12 wickets at an astonishing economy rate of 5.88. Amir has also taken 12 wickets, while Ferguson contributed 11 before his injury.

Ferguson on team spirit and the final challenge

Despite missing the final due to injury, Vipers captain Lockie Ferguson believes his team is ready for the occasion.

“From day one, we have all enjoyed being a part of the squad, and the family we have created has translated on the field. The Dubai Capitals are an exceptional team, and I think the top two teams in the competition have made it to the final.”

“We had a fantastic game against the Capitals in Qualifier 1, but tomorrow is a final, and we both start on zero. It’s an exciting time for players to step up for their teams. Both teams line up differently, we have different skill sets. There’s always pressure in a final — it’s a big opportunity, and pressure comes with opportunity. It’s been a long build-up, but the boys are ready for tomorrow,” he added.

Green Belt race and prize pool

Shai Hope is a leading contender for the Green Belt (most runs) with 484 runs in 11 innings at an average of 60.50, trailing MI Emirates’ Tom Banton by just nine runs. Meanwhile, Dushmantha Chameera has been the Capitals’ bowling spearhead, taking 13 wickets in nine matches.

The DP World ILT20 boasts a total prize pool of over $1 million, with the champions earning $700,000 and the runners-up securing $300,000. Individual brilliance will also be rewarded, with signature belts recognising standout performers:

• Green Belt for the highest run-scorer

• White Belt for the leading wicket-taker

• Red Belt for the most valuable player

• Blue Belt for the best UAE player

• Each belt winner will receive a $15,000 cash prize.

X-factors: Warner’s return and the toss

In a boost for the Capitals, David Warner has been reportedly declared fit after missing the Qualifier 1, but not confirmed to take his place. However, Warner’s return could tilt the scales in their favour. However, T20 matches are unpredictable, where momentum shifts in an instant. The toss could also play a crucial role in deciding the outcome.

With everything on the line, all eyes now turn to the Dubai International Stadium, where one team will write its name in ILT20 history.