The third season of the International League T20 (ILT20) kicks off with a clash between the Dubai Capitals and MI Emirates at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on January 11, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST. Both teams, having faced off in last season’s final, are set to begin their campaigns with high expectations and competitive spirits. Dubai Capitals, led by Sikandar Raza, aim to start strong against the defending champions, MI Emirates. While David Warner is expected to join post-BBL, Raza will temporarily take charge of the team. Players like Rovman Powell and Shai Hope are expected to play key roles as they seek to avenge their past defeats.
MI Emirates, under the leadership of Nicholas Pooran, brags an amazing lineup with players like Andre Fletcher, Kieron Pollard, and Dwayne Bravo. As defending champions, they look to continue their stellar form from last season.
Match Details
- Match: 1st ILT20 2025, Dubai Capitals vs MI Emirates
- Date and Time: January 11, 2025, 7:30 PM IST
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- Live Streaming: Zee Network & ZEE 5
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
Pitch Analysis: The Dubai International Cricket Stadium favors batting, especially in the second innings. The surface offers some early swing for pacers under lights, while spinners enjoy dominance during the middle overs.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 218
- Pitch Nature: Batting-friendly, with some assistance for spinners
- Chasing Record: 58% of matches are won by teams batting second.
Weather Forecast: Clear and sunny skies with temperatures between 17-24°C and no chance of rain, ideal for a full match under lights.
Dubai Capitals Team Preview and Probable XI
With a strong lineup, the Capitals aim to deploy their big hitters and an efficient bowling attack.
Probable Playing XI: Najibullah Zadran, Adam Rossington, Gulbadin Naib, Brandon McMullen, Sikandar Raza, Dasun Shanaka, Rovman Powell (c), Raja Akif, Scott Kuggeleijn, Zahir Khan, Obed McCoy
Key Players to Watch:
- Sikandar Raza: Captain and key all-rounder with experience and consistency.
- Rovman Powell: An aggressive batter with a knack for finishing games.
- Obed McCoy: Expected to lead the pace attack with precision.
MI Emirates Team Preview and Probable XI
MI Emirates look to leverage their balanced squad, combining experience and explosive talent.
Probable Playing XI: Muhammad Waseem, Tom Banton, Andre Fletcher, Nicholas Pooran (c), , Daniel Mousley, Kieron Pollard, , Romario Shepherd, Muhammad Rohid Khan, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Key Players to Watch:
- Nicholas Pooran: Power-hitting wicketkeeper-batter; vital in steering innings.
- Kieron Pollard: Legendary all-rounder with match-winning capabilities.
- Fazalhaq Farooqi: Promising bowler known for making crucial breakthroughs.
Dream11 Fantasy Prediction for DC vs MIE Match 1
Choose the best lineup for Dream11 based on player form and expected match conditions.
Suggested Dream11 Team 1:
Wicket-keepers:
- Nicholas Pooran
- Andre Fletcher
Batters:
- Kieron Pollard
- Rovman Powell
All-rounders:
- Sikandar Raza (C)
- Romario Shepherd
- Brandon McMullen
- Dasun Shanaka
Bowlers:
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Alzarri Joseph
- Obed McCoy
Vice-captain: Rovman Powell
Suggested Dream11 Team 2:
Wicket-keeper:
- Nicholas Pooran
Batters:
- Kieron Pollard
- Rovman Powell
All-rounders:
- Sikandar Raza
- Romario Shepherd
- Brandon McMullen
- Dasun Shanaka
- Scott Kuggeleijn
Bowlers:
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Alzarri Joseph
- Obed McCoy
Captain: Dasun Shanaka
Vice-captain: Nicholas Pooran
Key Matchups and Tactical Insights
Batting Showcase: With both teams possessing powerful top orders, expect high-scoring encounters, especially with Raza and Pollard in form.
Spin Factor: Spinners play a crucial role in the middle overs, potentially shifting momentum; keep an eye on tactical shifts.
Both teams stepping onto the field hope to set a dominant tone for the ILT20 season ahead. With strategic depth and dynamic players, this fixture promises a thrilling start to the tournament, offering fans and fantasy enthusiasts an engaging contest.
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