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“Playing for Each Other”: Captain Sam Billings on Dubai Capitals’ maiden title at the DP World ILT20 

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9 months ago

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The Dubai Capitals secured their first-ever DP World ILT20 title with a thrilling four-wicket victory over the Desert Vipers in the final. After a rollercoaster season that saw them recover from a tough start, the Capitals’ resilience led to a dramatic finish. Sam Billings, the captain of the Dubai Capitals, reflected on the team’s journey and shared his thoughts on their redemption, as well as the importance of composure in such a tense contest. 

Reflecting on the summit clash in the final, Billings said, “We’ve had some brilliant matches against the Desert Vipers, and tonight was an outstanding contest. The composure shown by some of the players at the end was remarkable. In T20 cricket, especially when chasing in this part of the world, you’re never out of the game if two players get going.” 

Last season, the Dubai Capitals finished as runners-up, and this year, they staged a remarkable turnaround. After three consecutive losses, they bounced back with six wins in seven matches, climbing from the bottom of the table to claim the title. On the team’s redemption, Billings said, “Similar to last year, we were at the bottom of the table before winning several in a row to reach the final. We’ve played some good cricket in different ways, and thankfully, we got across the line today.” 

He further added, “I was gutted when we couldn’t get the job done last year. Winning this trophy is very special, and the manner in which we did it makes it even more meaningful. I think we’ve done it the hard way over the last couple of years, so I’m incredibly proud of everyone associated with the franchise.” 

After Rovman Powell and Shai Hope set up the run chase, Sikandar Raza sizzled with 34 runs in 12 balls, along with Dasun Shanaka’s quick-fire 21, to bring the Capitals home. Speaking on his knock, Billings added, “I’ve told him over the last couple of games that he’d be the one to hit the winning runs, and he’s done it many times. What’s brilliant is that Rovman, Shai, and Dasun have also made a huge impact, but they each bring something different, complementing each other perfectly. Experience in those key moments is priceless, Raza’s been in that position countless times around the world, and that makes a big difference. You can see why he’s such a valuable asset globally.” 

Looking back at the season and what set the Capitals’ campaign apart, Billings opined, “I’ve been part of a lot of winning teams, so you learn along the way about different behaviours and ways of bringing the group together. A team is always stronger when it’s moving in the same direction, and I think that’s what we’ve done brilliantly this year. You can see those close wins; they’re the difference when a team plays for each other and together.” 

The victory marks the GMR Group’s first franchise tournament championship. While Billings attributed the success to comprehensive team efforts, the Capitals were buoyed by various outstanding individual performers as well.  

Opener Shai Hope claimed the Green Belt, awarded to the best batter of the season. Hope amassed 527 runs at an average of 58.55 in 12 innings, including three half-centuries and a century. Meanwhile, Gulbadin Naib was amongst the top all-rounders of the season with 381 runs, four half-centuries, and 11 wickets across the campaign. Though Dushmantha Chameera missed out on the final, he and Obed McCoy excelled through the competition with 13 wickets each.

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Events

BIFA holds inaugural Council Meeting in UAE, sets roadmap to reshape global football diplomacy

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8 hours ago

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November 13, 2025

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The BRICS International Football Alliance (BIFA) held its first-ever Council Meeting at the BIFA+ Global Headquarters in the UAE, marking a milestone in its mission to advance football diplomacy and cooperation across the Global South.

The session, attended by official representatives from China, underscored the strengthening partnership between the UAE and the People’s Republic of China in promoting sports, cultural, and technological exchange under the BIFA & BIFA+ framework.

Held under the theme “Deepening Sports Synergy and Promoting Diversified Development,” the meeting reviewed BIFA’s achievements since its establishment and outlined a bold strategic roadmap for 2026–2027, driving collaboration among BRICS and BRICS+ nations.

2026: BRICS Football International Village to debut in UAE

Next year, BIFA+ will launch the BRICS Football International Village at its UAE headquarters,  an integrated “sports, culture, health, and innovation” hub designed to foster collaboration and showcase the spirit of the Global South.

The initiative will connect regional headquarters in the UAE, China, Russia, Brazil, India, and South Africa, and feature cultural exhibitions, AI innovation forums, and the BRICS Football Cup Invitational Tournament, culminating in the BIFA+ Global Launch Ceremony in the UAE.

2027: China to host expanded BRICS Cup activities

In 2027, as China hosts the BRICS Summit, the country will also welcome the BRICS Cup Football Tournament, bringing together champion city teams from across member nations.

Ms. Wang Min, Chair of BIFA China, said the tournament will blend “Football + Urban Culture + New Media” – using digital storytelling and live engagement to make the BRICS Cup a globally recognised cultural sporting event.

A global platform for unity and innovation

BIFA’s development strategy is built around its “three-wheel drive”, sports, culture, and technology, ensuring sustainable growth and collaboration among BRICS nations.

Salem Almazaini, Founder and President of BIFA & BIFA+, said: “From our headquarters in the UAE, BIFA will use football as a vessel to deepen cooperation among BRICS and BRICS+ nations across sports, culture, health, and digital innovation.”

Founded under the guidance of Larisa Zelentsova, President of the International Alliance of BRICS Strategic Projects (Russia), BIFA continues to grow as a bridge between nations, using football as a language of diplomacy and sustainable development.

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Abu Dhabi T10 launches Super Fan Contest promising fans experiences of a lifetime

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9 hours ago

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November 13, 2025

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Cricket fever is about to hit new highs. As the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 gears up for another electrifying season, organisers have rolled out a new Super Fan Contest, a golden opportunity for UAE cricket lovers to win experiences money can’t buy.

Think masterclasses with cricket legends, serving as ball kids, photo ops with top players, signed gear, and even free match tickets.

“This will galvanise community participation locally and give us yet another opportunity to showcase this incredible emirate,” said Matt Boucher, CEO of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub. 

“We’re thrilled to announce the Super Fan Contest, which reflects our commitment to supporting cricket at the grassroots level.”

Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of T10 Sports Management, added, “For any cricket fan, being close to their favourite players is unmatched. This contest is all about elevating the fan experience and celebrating the excitement that defines T10 cricket.”

The 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 kicks off on November 18 and runs until November 30, promising high-octane clashes, thrilling finishes, and unforgettable moments.


The opening night sets the tone with Quetta Qavalry vs. Northern Warriors, followed by a showdown between the defending champions, Deccan Gladiators, and Delhi Bulls.

Fans can keep an eye on the official Abu Dhabi T10 social media pages for entry details and a shot at these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.


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Sports

FIFA disciplinary action: UAE official, Qatari player, and Saudi federation fined after World Cup qualifiers

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6 days ago

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November 7, 2025

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Things got heated during the UAE vs Qatar World Cup qualifier, and FIFA isn’t letting it slide.

Following the fiery 2026 World Cup qualifier on October 14, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has announced a series of suspensions and fines targeting officials and players from both sides.

Matar Obaid Saeed Mesfer Al Dhaheri, supervisor of the UAE national team, has been hit with a 16-match suspension and a 10,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh45,500) after being found guilty of unsporting behaviour and physical assault against the match referee.

Two-match ban for Qatar

Over on the Qatari side, Tarek Salman has received a two-match ban and a 5,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh22,750) for dangerous play during the same match.

The match itself ended in a 2–1 win for Qatar, securing their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the UAE continues its campaign with crucial playoff matches against Iraq to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Breach of disciplinary code

In a separate decision, FIFA fined the Saudi Arabian Football Federation 11,500 Swiss francs for breaches of its disciplinary code after fans lit fireworks during Saudi Arabia’s 0–0 draw with Iraq, a result that booked Saudi Arabia’s place in the tournament.

For context, the UAE Football Association has also been enforcing stricter discipline internally. Earlier this year, it suspended players Khalid Al Dhanhani and Sultan Adel for five matches each and fined them Dh500,000 for misconduct during a national team camp.

Together, these measures underline the zero-tolerance stance of FIFA and the UAE FA when it comes to professionalism and player conduct during critical World Cup qualifying stages.

Source: KT/GN

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