ILT20 2024: Match 19, VIP vs GUL Match Prediction: Who will win today’s match between Desert Vipers vs Gulf Giants?

Desert Vipers (VIP) and Gulf Giants (GUL) square off in match 19 of the ongoing ILT20 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, on Saturday, February 3.

Last year, these two teams faced each other in the finals. The Giants emerged victorious in a one-sided clash. However, this year, both teams have struggled to live up to their expectations and are languishing at the bottom of the table. The defending champions find themselves at No. 5, with two wins and three losses from five games. Meanwhile, the Vipers positioned at No. 6, having won two and lost four of their six matches.

The James Vince-led Giants are coming off a six-wicket defeat against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in their last game. On the other hand, The Vipers lost to Dubai Capitals by four wickets and will be desperate to get a win and move up the table. Earlier in the tournament, Colin Munro's men got the better of the Giants after successfully chasing down a target of 161, with eight balls and six wickets to spare.

VIP vs GUL Match Details

Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report:

So far in ILT20 2024, seven games have been played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The average first-innings score is 165. All seven games have been won by teams batting second. The highest first-innings score was registered by the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, as they scored 183/4 in their 20 overs against Dubai Capitals. However, the total was chased down with consummate ease, with five wickets and 23 balls to spare. The captain who wins the toss will surely bowl first after taking previous results into account.

VIP vs GUL Head-to-Head Record 

VIP vs GUL Predicted Playing XIs

Desert Vipers:

Rohan Mustafa, Alex Hales, Colin Munro (C), Azam Khan (WK), Sherfane Rutherford, Adam Hose, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ali Naseer, Shaheen Afridi, Luke Wood, Mohammed Amir

Gulf Giants:

Jamie Smith (WK), James Vince (C), Chris Lynn, Jordan Cox, Usman Khan, Shimron Hetmyer, Jamie Overton, Carlos Brathwaite, Dominic Drakes, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Zuhaib Zubair

VIP vs GUL Probable Top Performers

Probable Best Batter: Alex Hales

The flamboyant opener has scored 145 runs in six matches in ILT20 2024 at an average of 24.17 and a strike rate of  130.63. He has blown hot and cold but his innings of 49 off 32 balls in the last game against the Capitals would give him some confidence. He hit two fours and six sixes during the innings. If Hales can get going, he could change the course of the game in quick time.

Click here: Most Runs in ILT20 2024

Probable Best Bowler: Wanindu Hasaranga

The talismanic Sri Lankan all-rounder has been in fine form. With the ball, he has taken nine wickets at an average of 16.67 and a strike rate of 16. His economy rate is just 6.25, exhibiting the stranglehold he has had on the batters. Hasaranga would love to add more wickets to his tally and get his team into a good position through the middle overs.

Today’s Match Prediction: Team bowling first to win the match

Also check: VIP vs GUL Dream11 Prediction

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.