Abu Dhabi, December 22, 2025: The Dubai Capitals sealed an important six-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Sunday, delivering a composed all-round performance to briefly move to second place on the points table. The defeat marked a fourth consecutive loss for the Gulf Giants.
After restricting the Giants with disciplined bowling, the Capitals produced a measured chase, underlined by calm decision-making and clear execution under pressure.
Player of the Match Haider Ali highlighted the importance of sticking to simple plans and trusting preparation. “This was a very important win for us as a team,” said Haider Ali. “We came into the game with a simple plan — to win and assess the conditions — and I’m really happy with how we followed our processes. Everyone understood their roles and executed them well.”
Haider, who played a key role with the ball, spoke about his approach during the powerplay overs. “Bowling in the powerplay is something I really enjoy. It was about varying my pace and sticking to the basics. We’ve played a lot of cricket together, so understanding the batters helped. I just focused on preparation and backing my skills.”
Reflecting on the middle and death overs, he credited the bowling unit for turning the game decisively in the Capitals’ favour. “At one stage, it looked like they could get to 180 or even 200, but the way our bowlers pulled things back in the final overs was outstanding. That shift made a huge difference in the game.”
Haider also praised the batting effort that completed the chase. “Rovman played a brilliant innings under pressure. It’s not his natural game, but he read the conditions perfectly and understood how important this match was for us. Shahan showed great composure as well, building the innings and then finishing the game. That partnership was massive for us.”
With momentum firmly on their side, the Dubai Capitals will look to consolidate their position in the top two as the league phase progresses.
About Dubai Capitals
Dubai Capitals, owned by the GMR Group, is a cricket franchise competing in the International League DP World ILT20, a premier T20 tournament held in the United Arab Emirates since 2023. The franchise clinched the maiden title at DP World ILT20 Season 3 and now enters its fourth season as one of six teams in the competition. Led by newly appointed captain and Sri Lankan star Dasun Shanaka, the Dubai Capitals will field a formidable lineup featuring stalwarts such as Rovman Powell, Tymal Mills, David Willey, Scott Currie, Jimmy Neesham, and Gulbadin Naib. As in the previous season, the team will continue to be coached by Hemang Badani
About GMR Sports
Founded in 2008, GMR Sports represents the sports sector of the GMR Group. It is driven by a mission to connect people, nurture talent, and establish sports as a powerful unifying platform both within India and globally. Committed to becoming a respected and influential brand in the sports industry, GMR Sports embarked on its journey with cricket, chosen for its widespread appeal as the ideal starting point for the Group’s first-ever sports venture.
The journey began with the Delhi Capitals, the city’s first-ever cricket franchise and the sole representative of India’s national capital in the IPL. As part of its mission to broaden its impact, GMR Sports soon diversified its portfolio, adding sports that resonate deeply with the Indian community. The company now owns UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League and Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, additionally, has recently ventured into the league by acquiring rights to the Rugby Premier League, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional talent and promoting indigenous sports. Expanding its global footprint, GMR Sports now holds franchises in international markets, including Dubai Capitals in DP World ILT20, Pretoria Capitals in SA20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (US), and Hampshire County Cricket Club in England. Through these initiatives, GMR Sports continues to strengthen its presence on the world stage.
