Punjab Kings all-rounder Sam Curran delivered a masterclass performance to lead the Desert Vipers to their maiden International League T20 (ILT20) title, defeating MI Emirates by 46 runs in the final. Curran, captaining the Vipers, smashed an unbeaten 74 runs off 51 balls, setting a challenging target of 182/4 that proved insurmountable for the opposition.
Curran’s dominance throughout the tournament was recognized as he swept the major individual honors, claiming both the Red Belt (Most Valuable Player) and the Green Belt (Best Batter). The England star finished the memorable season with an impressive tally of 397 runs, including three half-centuries, complemented by seven wickets and 10 catches, showcasing his immense value as a true all-rounder.
This exceptional form bodes well for the Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL 2026 season, where Curran is expected to be a key figure. His ability to anchor an innings and accelerate when needed, combined with his leadership qualities demonstrated in the ILT20, confirms he is entering the IPL season in peak condition.
This analysis was generated by Third Umpire using official IPL statistics and live match data.
Learn how this works →
“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.”
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 |
See what cricket fans are saying about this in our Facebook community.
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.
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.
“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.”
