GG vs DV
The International League T20 (ILT20) continues to heat up with exciting matchups. In the fifth game of the season, Gulf Giants will face Desert Vipers at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday evening. Both teams are eager to assert dominance, but the Vipers come into this match with a psychological edge, having never been defeated by the Giants. With the Vipers riding high on a season-opening victory, the Giants must bounce back after a tough loss in their first match.
Teams Preview
Gulf Giants Preview
The Gulf Giants had a challenging start to the season, suffering a narrow 7-wicket defeat to Sharjah Warriorz. Despite putting up a competitive total of 175, the Warriors chased it down on the last ball of the game.
Looking to recover, the Giants will heavily rely on James Vince, their captain and top batter. Vince led the side with 356 runs in the previous season and is coming off a strong Big Bash League (BBL) campaign. Shimron Hetmyer can bring firepower alongside him, while Jordan Cox and Adam Lyth provide steadying influence in the middle order.
Mark Adair and Blessing Muzarabani were impressive in the bowling department in the opening game, taking two wickets each. With the addition of Tymal Mills and Rehan Ahmed, the Giants have multiple strike options.
Gulf Giants Predicted Playing XI
James Vince (c), Jordan Cox, Adam Lyth, Shimron Hetmyer, Oliver Robinson (wk), Mark Adair, Saghir Khan, Aayan Afzal Khan, Daniel Worrall, Rehan Ahmed, Tymal Mills.

Key Players from Previous Game
- Rehan Ahmed: 46 runs off 27 balls at a strike rate of 170.37
- Jordan Cox: 38 runs off 32 balls
- Shimron Hetmyer: 36 runs off 23 balls
- Mark Adair: 2 wickets for 23 runs from 4 overs
- Blessing Muzarabani: 2 wickets for 27 runs from 4 overs
Desert Vipers Preview
The Desert Vipers opened their season with an authoritative 7-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, chasing down 168 comfortably in 18.3 overs. Dan Lawrence was the star with a blistering 70 off 39 balls, and Sam Curran anchored the chase with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls.
The Vipers boast a formidable batting lineup, with Alex Hales, Fakhar Zaman, and Sherfane Rutherford capable of accelerating at any moment. Sam Curran also provides middle-order stability.
Mohammad Amir and Lockie Ferguson are key threats with the ball, and both have been in fine form in recent leagues. The Vipers’ depth in both batting and bowling makes them a well-rounded team.
Desert Vipers Predicted Playing XI
Tanish Suri (wk), Alex Hales, Fakhar Zaman, Dan Lawrence, Sherfane Rutherford, Sam Curran, Ali Naseer, Lockie Ferguson (c), Nathan Sowter, Luke Wood, Mohammad Amir.
Key Players from Previous Game
- Dan Lawrence: 70 runs off 39 balls at a strike rate of 179.49
- Sam Curran: 50* runs off 37 balls at a strike rate of 135.14
- Fakhar Zaman: 23 runs off 15 balls at a strike rate of 153.33
- Mohammad Amir: 1 wicket for 29 runs from 4 overs
- Lockie Ferguson: 1 wicket for 26 runs from 4 overs

Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Analysis
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch favours batters, especially under the lights. While pacers can extract bounce and movement early on, spinners find some grip as the game progresses. Dew may come into play in the second innings, making the chase more manageable for the team batting second.
Weather Forecast
Clear skies with no rain forecasted. Pleasant weather conditions are expected throughout the match.
Toss Prediction
Teams generally prefer to bowl first, as chasing has historically been more successful at this venue.
GG vs DV Match Prediction
Based on current form and overall squad strength, Desert Vipers have the upper hand heading into this match. Their all-round strength, especially with both bat and ball, gives them a clear edge. The Gulf Giants must regroup and perform well after their opening loss.
Final Prediction: Desert Vipers will likely continue their winning streak and emerge victorious in this contest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What time does the GG vs DV match start?
The match is scheduled for Tuesday, 14 January 2025 evening at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Q. Which team has the advantage in this match?
Desert Vipers have a psychological edge, having beaten the Gulf Giants in all their previous encounters. Their all-round performance in the season opener further strengthens their position.
Q. How does the pitch behave at Dubai International Cricket Stadium?
The pitch tends to favour batters, but spinners can gain some advantage as the match progresses. Pacers who bowl with pace and bounce also have an edge.
Q. What is the weather like for the match?
The weather in Dubai will be clear and pleasant, with no rain expected to disrupt play.
Q. Which team has the stronger batting lineup?
Both teams have strong batting lineups, but Desert Vipers’ depth in the order, with the likes of Dan Lawrence, Sam Curran, and Alex Hales, gives them a slight edge over the Gulf Giants.