The International League T20 (ILT20) is the premier T20 competition in the UAE, featuring six franchises vying for glory every season. In this year’s edition, Dubai Capitals will face MI Emirates in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Capitals, last season’s runners-up, are hungry for their maiden title, while the defending champions, MI Emirates, aim to extend their dominance with another successful campaign.
Match Details
Fixture | Dubai Capitals vs MI Emirates |
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Date | Sunday, 22nd December 2024 |
Time | 7:30 PM (Local), 9:00 PM (IST) |
Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
Weather Forecast | Clear skies with hot and humid conditions |
Teams Preview
Dubai Capitals Preview
Dubai Capitals enter this season with a revamped leadership setup, appointing David Warner as their captain. However, Warner and wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings are uncertain for the opening game due to international commitments. Sikandar Raza, a reliable all-rounder, is expected to lead the team in their absence.
Shai Hope, who had an exceptional 2024 in franchise cricket, is a crucial cog at the top of the order. Adam Rossington’s attacking style and Rovman Powell’s finishing capabilities will be vital for a strong batting performance. Dasun Shanaka and Brandon McMullen add balance with their all-around abilities.
The bowling unit, however, appears to be a weak link. Obed McCoy and Scott Kuggeleijn will lead the pace attack, while local talents Akif Raja and Haider Ali have a point to prove. The Capitals will need their bowlers to step up against MI Emirates’ formidable batting lineup.
Key Players: Sikandar Raza, Shai Hope, Rovman Powell, Obed McCoy
Impact Players: Najibullah Zadran, Ben Dunk, Jake Fraser McGurk
Predicted Playing XI:
Shai Hope, Adam Rossington (wk), Dasun Shanaka, Sikandar Raza (c), Rovman Powell, Brandon McMullen, Scott Kuggeleijn, Olly Stone, Obed McCoy, Akif Raja, Haider Ali
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates, the defending champions, boast a strong and balanced lineup led by Nicholas Pooran. Their top order, featuring Muhammad Waseem and Kusal Perera, has the firepower to exploit any bowling attack. Andre Fletcher’s likely inclusion at No. 3 further strengthens their batting.
The middle order comprises experienced campaigners such as Kieron Pollard and Romario Shepherd, with Dwayne Bravo adding depth as an all-rounder. Their bowling attack, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi, Zahoor Khan, and Akeal Hosein, combines pace and spin effectively.
MI Emirates have a well-rounded team and are favorites to start the tournament with a win.
Key Players: Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Impact Players: Alzarri Joseph, Jordan Thompson, Nosthush Kenjige
Predicted Playing XI:
Nicholas Pooran (c), Muhammad Waseem, Kusal Perera, Tom Banton (wk), Kieron Pollard, Romario Shepherd, Dwayne Bravo, Mohammad Rohid, Zahoor Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Allah Ghazanfar
Fantasy Team XI
Player | Role |
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Shai Hope | Wicketkeeper |
Muhammad Waseem | Batter |
Kusal Perera | Batter |
Nicholas Pooran | Batter |
Sikandar Raza | All-Rounder |
Kieron Pollard | All-Rounder |
Dasun Shanaka | All-Rounder |
Romario Shepherd | All-Rounder |
Obed McCoy | Bowler |
Fazalhaq Farooqi | Bowler |
Akeal Hosein | Bowler |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report:
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium offers a batting-friendly surface with minimal assistance for bowlers. Early moisture might provide some movement for pacers, but overall, the pitch remains conducive to high scores. An average first-innings total of 160-180 can be expected.
Weather Forecast:
Hot and humid conditions with clear skies will prevail during the game. Dew might play a role in the second innings, making it slightly easier for the chasing team.
Toss Prediction:
Both captains are likely to bat first, aiming to post a challenging total. However, they might also consider the dew factor while deciding at the toss.
Winning Prediction
MI Emirates come into the match with a balanced and settled lineup. The Dubai Capitals, while boasting a solid batting order, lack depth in their bowling, which could be their undoing.
Prediction: MI Emirates to win the match.
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