Dubai Capitals skipper Dasun Shanaka has expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s capabilities despite suffering a four-wicket defeat against Desert Vipers in the DP World ILT20 season opener. The highly anticipated rematch of last season’s final unfolded at Dubai International Stadium on Tuesday, with the Vipers emerging victorious in a tense contest.
Reflecting on the performance, Shanaka acknowledged tactical shortcomings while maintaining an optimistic outlook. “Our analysis indicates we fell approximately 10-15 runs short of the par score this pitch demanded,” the Sri Lankan all-rounder stated. “Preserving more wickets during the middle overs would have enabled a significantly stronger finish and altered the match outcome.”
The captain identified the powerplay phase as particularly decisive, noting: “Cricket fundamentally revolves around momentum. We failed to establish dominance either with bat or ball during the critical opening overs, allowing the Vipers to seize control. Their batters capitalized effectively on our loose deliveries, creating pressure that persisted despite our subsequent recovery efforts.”
Dubai Capitals’ innings encountered early turbulence with the dismissals of Sediqullah Atal (16 off 13) and Shayan Jahangir (19 off 15). The situation deteriorated following quick departures of Gulbadin Naib (0 off 1) and Jordan Cox (2 off 7), until Rovman Powell (29 off 22) and Mohammad Nabi (29 off 23) stabilized the innings to post 150/9 in 20 overs.
Shanaka accepted personal responsibility for the batting order decisions, revealing: “As captain, I recognize the necessity to bat higher and assume greater responsibility. The collapse necessitated strategic repositioning, but we will thoroughly reassess our approach moving forward.”
The defending champions now prepare for their second tournament encounter against Gulf Giants on Saturday, December 6th, with Shanaka asserting: “Our demonstrated capabilities far exceed today’s performance. I remain convinced we will deliver a powerful response in our upcoming matches.”