South African all-rounder Lockie Ferguson was elated after helping his team Desert Vipers claim two points with a win against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the 2025 season of the International League (IL) T20 in Abu Dhabi.

Obviously nice to get across the line. Good toss to win. I've played here a bit. Nice to get underway with a win today. Those times have changed [of feeling extra pressure as a captain]. They bowled very well today. It wasn't easy going into the wind.
In their first match of ILT20 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, England middle-order batter Dan Lawrence scored a 39-ball 70 and along with countryman Sam Curran (50 not out off 37 balls) to help Desert Vipers to a seven-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
Asked to bat first, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders rode on an unbeaten 71 by England's Phil Salt and a 34-ball 46 by Alishan Sharafu to post 166/5 in 20 overs.
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Show more newsIn response, Desert Vipers had lost Fakhar Zaman (23) and Alex Hales (10) early and were down to 56/2 when Lawrence and Curran came together and raised 95 runs for the third wicket. Lawrence was caught by Jason Holder off Shahid Bhutta for 70 (4x7, 6x3) while Curran remained unbeaten with 50 (4x2, 6x1) as Desert Vipers reached 168/3 in 18.4 overs.
The situation was quite nice to come into, knowing I had to give myself time. Lockie (Ferguson) did really well (as captain). From the hotel to how the coaches treat you, this is probably the most professional set-up.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' captain Sunil Narine remarked, their inability to score more in the first six overs (Power-play) was the reason for their defeat.
We did pretty good to get back in the game. We had a tough powerplay. We obviously wanted more (runs on the board). The key was the first six (overs). It became easier after that.
Desert Vipers will take on Gulf Giants in their next match in Dubai on Tuesday.


