The International League T20, 2025, is heating up as MI Emirates gear up to take on the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the 17th match of the tournament at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. MI Emirates come into this game with a convincing 28-run victory over the Knight Riders in their previous encounter. Riding high on their unbeaten head-to-head record, MI Emirates will aim to extend their dominance, while the Knight Riders are desperate for a turnaround to stay in contention.
Match Details
Match | MI Emirates vs. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Match 17) |
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Date | January 25, 2025 |
Time | 7:30 PM (Local) / 9:00 PM IST |
Venue | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
Broadcast | Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar |
Team Previews
MI Emirates Preview
MI Emirates, led by Nicholas Pooran, have been one of the standout teams this season. Their comprehensive victory over the Knight Riders in the last game showcased their all-around strength. The team’s top-order, featuring Kusal Perera and Muhammad Waseem, provided a solid platform. Pooran has been exceptional with the bat, scoring a brisk 49 off 26 balls in the last match, while Romario Shepherd added fireworks with his 38 off 13 balls.
The Emirates’ bowling unit, spearheaded by Fazalhaq Farooqi, has been consistent. Farooqi’s wicket-taking ability in the powerplay has been a game-changer. With the support of Akeal Hosein and Alzarri Joseph, their attack has been one of the most balanced this season.
Key Players: Nicholas Pooran, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Romario Shepherd
Predicted Playing XI:
Nicholas Pooran (c & wk), Muhammad Waseem, Kusal Perera, Tom Banton, Kieron Pollard, Dan Mousley, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Zahoor Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Alzarri Joseph, Waqar Salamkheil (Impact Player)
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Preview
The Knight Riders, captained by Sunil Narine, are under pressure after a string of poor performances. They suffered another loss against MI Emirates in their last game, largely due to a middle-order collapse. However, Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous impressed at the top, with the latter scoring a steady 34.
Their middle-order, comprising Joe Clarke, Michael-Kyle Pepper, and Alishan Sharafu, needs to step up in this crucial game. The presence of power-hitters like Andre Russell and Laurie Evans provides the Knight Riders a late boost, but the team requires consistency across all phases of the game.
On the bowling front, Jason Holder and David Willey need to provide early breakthroughs, while Narine’s experience in the middle overs will be vital. Ali Khan and Ibrar Ahmed must improve their economy rates to restrict the Emirates’ powerful batting lineup.
Key Players: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Kyle Mayers
Predicted Playing XI:
Sunil Narine (c), Kyle Mayers, Andries Gous, Joe Clarke (wk), Michael-Kyle Pepper, Alishan Sharafu, Laurie Evans, Jason Holder, David Willey, Ibrar Ahmad, Ali Khan, Andre Russell (Impact Player)
Fantasy Team XI
Player | Team | Role |
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Nicholas Pooran (C) | MI Emirates | Wicketkeeper |
Kusal Perera (VC) | MI Emirates | Batter |
Kyle Mayers | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | All-rounder |
Andre Russell | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | All-rounder |
Joe Clarke | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | Wicketkeeper |
Muhammad Waseem | MI Emirates | Batter |
Kieron Pollard | MI Emirates | All-rounder |
Fazalhaq Farooqi | MI Emirates | Bowler |
Sunil Narine | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | Bowler |
Romario Shepherd | MI Emirates | All-rounder |
Alzarri Joseph | MI Emirates | Bowler |
Pitch Report
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi offers a balanced surface, with large boundaries testing batters’ power. While the pitch favors batters initially, spinners tend to play a significant role as the game progresses.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 165-175
- Chasing Record: Teams batting second have struggled in evening games due to pitch slowing down.
Toss Prediction: Teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first, considering the dew factor in Abu Dhabi during night games.
Weather Conditions
Abu Dhabi will witness a clear evening with no rain interruptions. The temperature will hover around 20°C, creating pleasant conditions for players.
Winning Prediction
The Knight Riders must overcome mental and tactical hurdles to challenge the dominant MI Emirates. However, given their strong batting depth and consistent bowling, MI Emirates remain favorites to win this encounter and strengthen their position on the points table.
Predicted Winner: MI Emirates
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