Dubai Capitals beat Sharjah Warriorz by 63 runs in the DP World ILT20 on December 24, 2025 — and did so in a manner that left no room for debate. Played at Dubai International Stadium, this was the first time Dubai Capitals had ever beaten Sharjah Warriorz in an ILT20 meeting, and it arrived with authority rather than fortune.
Dubai Capitals Post 181 on the Back of Atal and Nabi
Batting first, Dubai Capitals built their innings with measured aggression. Sediqullah Atal provided the foundation with a composed 66 off 44 deliveries, giving the middle order a stable platform to work from. Jordan Cox contributed 28 off 19, and Leus du Plooy chipped in with 18 off 14 before Mohammad Nabi arrived to close out the innings in style.
Nabi's 38* off just 19 balls shifted the innings into a higher gear and pushed Dubai Capitals to 181 — a total that placed Sharjah Warriorz firmly under pressure from the first ball of the chase. Taskin Ahmed was the pick of the Warriorz bowlers, taking two wickets, but the damage had been done.
Sharjah Warriorz Collapse Under Sustained Pressure
Sharjah Warriorz never found momentum during the chase. Early wickets disrupted any sense of flow, and the required run rate quickly became uncomfortable. James Rew offered the most resistance with 47 off 38, but he found little support. Sikandar Raza made 21 off 14 before falling with the game still in the balance.
Mohammad Nabi returned with the ball and delivered another decisive spell, taking 3 wickets for 23 runs and cutting through the Warriorz middle order. Waqar Salamkheil matched that impact with 3 wickets for 22 runs, keeping Sharjah from regaining footing at any stage. Haider Ali chipped in with two dismissals. The Warriorz were bowled out for 117 in 17 overs, well short of the target.
Nabi reflected on the team's approach: "The top order set a great platform for the middle order. I always try to practice my power hitting since I bat at number six or seven a lot." Sikandar Raza acknowledged the damage done: "On that wicket, the score was chasable; we needed partnerships. After winning two in a row, this loss is a setback."
A Victory That Reshapes the ILT20 Standings
This result carried weight far beyond two points. Dubai Capitals had never beaten Sharjah Warriorz in a previous ILT20 meeting, making this outcome a clear shift in the rivalry. The win moved Dubai Capitals to joint 2nd place with 6 points — level with three other sides in a tightly packed table. Desert Vipers sit clear at the top with 12 points, while Sharjah Warriorz are left with 4 as the playoff race enters its most critical phase.
Dubai Capitals did not rely on chaos or chance to secure this result. They controlled tempo, made clear decisions, and applied pressure in every phase. From Atal's composed innings to Nabi's influence with bat and ball, the night belonged entirely to Dubai. As the DP World ILT20 2025-26 season continues, this match will stand as the moment Dubai Capitals firmly announced themselves as a serious force.
