Revenge Complete As MI Emirates Overpower Dubai Despite Shai Hope’s Century in ILT20 2025
MI Emirates avenged their narrow one-run defeat in the tournament opener against the same opposition with this win.
MI Emirates secured a 26-run victory over Dubai Capitals in the fourth match of ILT20 2025 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Despite Shai Hope’s brilliant century, Dubai Capitals faltered in their chase of 188 runs, suffering their first loss of the season against the Emirates.
MI Emirates batted first after Dubai Capitals won the toss and opted to bowl. The Emirates lost Kusal Perera early as Dushmantha Chameera bowled a beauty to hit the off-stump. Muhammad Waseem followed soon after a mix-up with Tom Banton, leading to a runout.
Tom Banton and captain Nicholas Pooran then steadied the innings with a remarkable 109-run partnership. Banton smashed 74 off 52 balls, including nine boundaries, while Pooran hit 59 off just 29 balls with six towering sixes.
Kieron Pollard chipped in with a handy 22 off 19 balls, taking the Emirates to a total of 187/7. Gulbadin Naib was the pick of the bowlers for the Capitals, claiming 3 wickets for just 18 runs in his three overs.
Shai Hope’s Heroics Not Enough
Chasing 188, Dubai Capitals started well with a 54-run opening stand between Shai Hope and Ben Dunk. However, Alzarri Joseph dismissed Dunk on the last ball of the powerplay. Hope continued his fireworks, smashing the MI bowlers all over the park. His sensational century came off just 59 balls, including 11 fours and 3 sixes.
Despite Hope’s lone effort, Dubai Capitals faced a lower-order collapse. Fazalhaq Farooqi dismissed Sikandar Raza and Dasun Shanaka in quick succession, tilting the game in MI Emirates’ favor. Hope’s wicket, taken by AM Ghazanfar, was the turning point, leaving the Capitals with too much to do in the final overs.
The Capitals managed only 161/6 in their 20 overs, falling short by 26 runs. For the Emirates, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Alzarri Joseph took two wickets each, while Waqar Salamkheil and Ghazanfar picked up one apiece.
