Punjab Kings all-rounder Sam Curran delivered a match-winning performance in the ILT20 2025-26 final, captaining the Desert Vipers to their maiden title with a commanding 46-run victory over MI Emirates. Curran anchored the Vipers' innings, scoring a crucial unbeaten 74 off 51 balls, which included two sixes and six fours.
Curran’s knock was instrumental in setting a challenging target of 183/4, especially after the Vipers lost early wickets. He forged a vital 89-run partnership with Max Holden (41) to stabilize the innings. The target proved too steep for MI Emirates, who were bowled out for 136. Curran’s exceptional form and leadership in the ILT20 provide a significant boost for his IPL franchise, Punjab Kings, ahead of the upcoming season.
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“Desert Vipers had set the tone with a strong batting display and posted 182/4, with Sam Curran, the captain, leading the charge with a commanding, unbeaten 74 off 51, striking two sixes and six fours.”
Batting specialists with highest strike rates at Wankhede Stadium (minimum 3 matches, batters/all-rounders/wicketkeepers only)
| Rank | Player | Team | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 239.29 | |
#2 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 239.22 | |
| #3 | Rajasthan Royals | 201.75 | |
| #4 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 188.44 | |
| #5 | Delhi Capitals | 186.05 |
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I was nervous coming into the final. The players, management and owners have been outstanding, and it’s going to be a big celebration tonight. Nerves are natural, and I think they help.
Iyer, who was named in India’s 15-member squad earlier this month subject to fitness clearance, has successfully demonstrated his readiness after featuring in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26. He is set to link up with the national squad on Friday, January 9.
The middle-order batter has been declared fit to play and marked his return to the field with a solid knock of 82 off 53 balls for Mumbai against Himachal Pradesh in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26.
“Desert Vipers had set the tone with a strong batting display and posted 182/4, with Sam Curran, the captain, leading the charge with a commanding, unbeaten 74 off 51, striking two sixes and six fours.”
