NEW DELHI: English all-rounder Sam Curran is having a stellar season in the ongoing International League T20 (ILT20) with Desert Vipers, who have dominated the league stage. The Vipers have secured the top spot even before the other three playoff spots are confirmed, setting themselves up as strong contenders for the title.
Curran has been in exceptional form, particularly with the bat, amassing 239 runs at an impressive average of 47.80, including two unbeaten half-centuries. He is the second-highest run-scorer for the team and has also chipped in with six crucial wickets. His contributions have played a significant role in the Vipers’ seven wins from nine league matches so far.
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Ahead of their final league game against Dubai Capitals on Monday, Curran shared his thoughts on the team’s journey and their excitement heading into the playoffs.
“It’s obviously been a really good season for the team. I think we’ve been really consistent throughout. Now it’s crunch time, so we’re very excited. We have one more game which we’ll try and win to keep the momentum going before the first qualifier on Wednesday. The team’s in a really good place, very confident, training well, and fingers crossed, it’s the season for the Vipers to win the title and go all the way,” Curran said during an online media interaction.
Curran credited the Vipers’ setup for creating an enjoyable and competitive environment that has kept the team motivated.
“It’s been a really enjoyable season. We’ve had a great group, a solid setup with the players and management, and we’ve put in some great performances. The competition has been strong, and we hope to go all the way. The next few days will be crucial in maintaining momentum,” he said.
The all-rounder emphasised the team’s primary goal – winning the title – rather than focusing on individual performances.
“I’ve enjoyed the tournament. The environment has been great, the grounds and pitches have been good, and I’ve scored some runs and taken some wickets. But the main focus is winning the trophy. If we can bring home the title for the Vipers, that would be the ultimate achievement,” Curran remarked.
Curran is unfazed by the uncertainty around their playoff opponents, stating that the Vipers will concentrate on their own game rather than worrying about potential matchups.
“We just need to focus on ourselves. We have one more league game in Sharjah, and then the playoffs begin. I’d love to play against Tom [Curran] and the Gulf Giants again, but ultimately, we just have to play our best. Finishing in the top two gives us an advantage, and hopefully, by next Sunday, we’ll be in the final.”
The sibling rivalry with his elder brother Tom Curran, who plays for Gulf Giants, has added a personal element to the tournament for Sam. He relished their previous encounter and hopes for another face-off in the playoffs.
“Playing against Tom was really fun. He played really well, and it brought back childhood memories of our competitive battles. He got one over me the other day, which was a good contest. If the Gulf Giants qualify, I’d love another chance to play against him later in the tournament,” he said with a smile.
Curran also praised the ILT20 for its unique format, particularly the presence of nine international players per team, which sets it apart from other leagues.
“What makes the ILT20 unique is the allowance of nine international players per team. That creates a strong competition, with squads full of high-quality players. The standard has been impressive, and I’ve also been pleased with the performances of the UAE players. Playing across three stadiums and having less travel time benefits player recovery, making the league even more competitive,” Curran elaborated.
With the playoffs fast approaching, Curran remains focused on leading Desert Vipers to their first ILT20 title. His form and mindset suggest he will play a crucial role in their bid for glory.
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