In a decisive final league encounter of DP World ILT20 Season 4, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders secured their playoff qualification with a comprehensive 32-run triumph against the Gulf Giants at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The victory sets up an Eliminator clash with the Dubai Capitals scheduled for January 1, 2026.
The Knight Riders’ success was built upon a spectacular batting display from openers Michael Pepper and Phil Salt, who orchestrated a dominant 131-run partnership – only the second century stand of the tournament. Pepper’s explosive 83 from 51 deliveries, featuring six boundaries and four sixes, combined with Salt’s unbeaten 72 from 56 balls to establish a formidable total of 179/1.
Despite a valiant counter-attack from Moeen Ali, whose 79 off 49 balls provided temporary resistance, the Giants’ chase faltered due to insufficient support from other batsmen. The Knight Riders’ bowling unit maintained relentless pressure throughout the innings, with Jason Holder making early breakthroughs by dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz and James Vince within the powerplay.
The match reached its turning point in the 15th over when Sunil Narine claimed two crucial wickets, followed by Andre Russell’s decisive double strike in the 18th over that removed both Moeen Ali and Aayan Khan in consecutive deliveries. The Giants ultimately finished at 147/9, concluding their campaign with six consecutive losses.
Post-match reflections highlighted contrasting emotions between the teams. Player of the Match Michael Pepper emphasized strategic patience and matchup exploitation, while Gulf Giants captain James Vince acknowledged the challenging batting conditions and praised Moeen Ali’s solitary effort amidst the team’s bowling deficiencies.