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The 19th match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 will feature MI Emirates (MIE) facing Gulf Giants (GG) at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on January 24th, 2025, at 8:00 PM IST.
Defending champions MI Emirates are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 42-run loss against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. They will be eager to get back to winning ways against struggling Gulf Giants, who are currently at the bottom of the points table with just one win this season.
Historically, MIE has dominated this rivalry, winning three of the last four games against GG. With the tournament entering its crucial phase, both teams must win this match to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Match Details
| Fixture | MI Emirates vs Gulf Giants |
|---|---|
| Date | January 24, 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
Teams Preview
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates were outplayed by Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in their last match, suffering a 42-run defeat. Their bowlers leaked runs, and their batting collapsed while chasing 209.
Captain Nicholas Pooran will demand a better performance from his batters, particularly from the top order, which struggled in the previous game.
Kusal Perera and Muhammad Waseem must provide a strong opening stand. The middle order is packed with big hitters, including Pooran, Tom Banton, and Dan Mousley. Kieron Pollard, who smashed 69 off 49 balls in the last match, remains a key player.
The bowling unit needs improvement. Fazalhaq Farooqi and Akeal Hosein must deliver early breakthroughs, while Alzarri Joseph and Waqar Salamkheil must control the middle overs.
With a solid all-round squad, MIE will look to capitalize on GG’s struggles and return to winning ways.
Key Players:
Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, Alzarri Joseph, Muhammad Waseem
Predicted Playing XI:
Nicholas Pooran (c & wk), Muhammad Waseem, Tom Banton, Kieron Pollard, Dan Mousley, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Zahoor Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Alzarri Joseph, Waqar Salamkheil, Kusal Perera (Impact Player)
Gulf Giants Preview
Gulf Giants are having a tough season, with only one win so far. Their batting and bowling units have struggled, and they desperately need a big win to stay alive in the tournament.
In their last game, GG lost by five wickets to Dubai Capitals, with their bowlers failing to defend 168 runs.
Skipper James Vince and Ibrahim Zadran must provide a solid opening partnership to counter MIE’s bowling attack. Jordan Cox, Gerhard Erasmus, and Tom Alsop will need to stabilize the middle order. Shimron Hetmyer and Dominic Drakes will play key roles in finishing the innings strongly.
GG’s bowling unit must improve to restrict MIE’s explosive batters. Mark Adair and Gerhard Erasmus need early breakthroughs, while Blessing Muzarabani and Dominic Drakes must step up in the middle overs. Dushan Hemantha and Muhammad Zuhaib will play supporting roles.
GG need a collective effort from both batting and bowling departments to stand a chance against MI Emirates.
Key Players:
James Vince, Jordan Cox, Blessing Muzarabani, Mark Adair
Predicted Playing XI:
James Vince (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Jordan Cox (wk), Gerhard Erasmus, Shimron Hetmyer, Mark Adair, Aayan Afzal Khan, Tom Alsop, Muhammad Zuhaib, Dominic Drakes, Blessing Muzarabani, Dushan Hemantha (Impact Player)
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Kieron Pollard |
| Vice-Captain | James Vince |
| Batsmen | Muhammad Waseem, Tom Banton, Jordan Cox |
| All-rounders | Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd, Gerhard Erasmus |
| Wicketkeeper | Kusal Perera |
| Bowlers | Alzarri Joseph, Blessing Muzarabani, Mark Adair, Fazalhaq Farooqi |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, is a batting-friendly venue with flat tracks and fast outfield.
- Pace bowlers struggle, but spinners can find turn in the middle overs.
- The average 1st innings score is 183 runs, and teams batting first should aim for 200+ to feel secure.
Weather Conditions
- Clear skies and pleasant temperatures around 20-22°C are expected.
- No rain interruptions, ensuring a full 40-over game.
Toss Prediction
- Teams chasing have won 13 out of the last 20 matches at this venue.
- The captains will likely choose to bowl first to take advantage of the dew factor.
Winning Prediction
Gulf Giants have struggled throughout the season, with inconsistent batting and bowling. They must put together a complete performance to challenge the defending champions.
MI Emirates, despite their last defeat, remain a strong side with powerful hitters and a potent bowling attack. Their ability to dominate this fixture historically puts them in a strong position.
With better squad depth and current form, we expect MI Emirates to bounce back and secure a win.
Prediction: MI Emirates to win!
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