The second season of ILT20 is underway and fans have already been treated to some exhilarating cricketing action. However, the season has just started with a lot more action coming up in the following days. Match No. 7 in the ILT20 will see the Gulf Giants locking horns with the Desert Vipers at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, January 24.

The Giants have played a couple of matches so far in the six-team tournament. The defending champions started their campaign with a comprehensive 31-run win against Sharjah Warriors. The Giants restricted Sharjah to 167/7 after putting on 198/7 in the first innings. In their second game, James Vince and Co. lost to MI Emirates by 18 runs after their bowlers conceded 179 in the first innings.

One of the promising signs for the Giants has been the form of their captain. The English cricketer scored 45 and 52 in the first two games respectively. Meanwhile, Jamie Overton picked up three wickets in the first game and scored an 18-ball 41 in the second. His all-round exploits will give the Giants a lot of confidence going forward.

Desert Vipers lost the final last year to Gulf Giants by seven wickets. They will be eager to avenge that excruciating defeat. They have played just one game so far in this year’s campaign. Against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Colin Munro’s men lost by six wickets after scoring 164/8 in their 20 overs.

Adam Hose was the top-scorer for the Vipers with a 30-ball 45 but the other batters couldn’t capitalise on their starts. Tymal Mills was the pick of the bowlers for the Vipers, as he picked up a couple of wickets, conceding 21 runs in 3.4 overs. However, Andries Gous’ unbeaten 50-ball 95 helped the Knight Riders win with 14 balls to spare.

Fans can expect a thrilling affair on Wednesday between two very good teams, having balanced sides, with abundant batting as well as bowling resources.