The ILT20 2025 is heating up, and we’ve got a cracking match coming up! The MI Emirates are set to take on the Dubai Capitals at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on January 13. These two teams have already faced off once this season, and what a match it was! Dubai Capitals managed to squeak out a thrilling one-run win, and I’m sure MI Emirates are itching for revenge.
Both teams will be desperate to pick up some crucial points early on in the tournament, and with the Sheikh Zayed Stadium’s spin-friendly surface, this one’s shaping up to be another nail-biter. So, if you’re looking to make some fantasy team magic happen, here’s the lowdown on what you need to know for MIE vs DC.
Match Details: MIE vs DC, Match 4, ILT20 2025
- Date: Monday, January 13, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM IST / 6:30 PM Local Time
- Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
- Live Broadcast & Streaming: Zee Network, FanCode App
Pitch Report: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi is known for its spin-friendly surface. The pitch tends to slow down as the game progresses, making it challenging for batters in the second innings. Spinners will have a major role to play, especially in the middle overs.
Batters will need to take their time to settle in before playing their shots, and scores between 150-160 are considered par totals at this venue.
Pitch Insights:
- Average First Innings Score: 136 (over 90 matches)
- Runs Expected: 150-160
- Chasing Success: Teams batting second have won 6 out of 11 matches.
- Spin vs Pace: Historically, spinners have been more successful at this venue due to the slow nature of the pitch.
| Type | Overs | Wickets | Average | Economy | Strike Rate | Dot Ball % |
| Pace | 235.1 | 78 | 26.89 | 8.92 | 18 | 40.9 |
| Spin | 160.5 | 56 | 19.19 | 6.68 | 17.2 | 41.4 |
Weather Report: Abu Dhabi
The weather in Abu Dhabi is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures around 23°C. The humidity will be around 60%, and there’s no significant chance of rain. Teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first, considering the conditions.
MI Emirates (MIE) Team Preview
MI Emirates were dominant throughout the ILT20 2024 season, but they suffered a shock loss to Dubai Capitals in the opening game of 2025. Despite Nicholas Pooran’s half-century, MIE couldn’t chase a modest target of 134 due to a middle-order collapse. They’ll be eager to avenge their defeat and get their campaign back on track.
The bowling attack, led by Alzarri Joseph, Akeal Hosein, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, will need to step up to restrict DC’s batting unit.
Probable Playing XI for MIE:
- Waseem Muhammad
- Kusal Perera (wk)
- Andre Fletcher
- Tom Banton
- Nicholas Pooran (c)
- Kieron Pollard
- Romario Shepherd
- Akeal Hosein
- Alzarri Joseph
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Waqar Salamkheil
Key Players to Watch for MIE:
- Nicholas Pooran: The skipper has been in good form, scoring 61 runs in the opening match. His finishing abilities make him a top fantasy pick.
- Kieron Pollard: The veteran all-rounder needs to step up in the middle-order and can be a game-changer with both bat and ball.
- Akeal Hosein: A valuable spinner on slow tracks, Hosein’s accuracy and economy will be vital for MIE.
Dubai Capitals (DC) Team Preview
Dubai Capitals pulled off a stunning win in the season opener, defending a below-par total of 133 against MI Emirates. Brandon McMullen and Dasun Shanaka played key roles with the bat, while the bowlers, led by Zahir Khan and Ollie Stone, delivered in the powerplay to put pressure on MIE. They’ll look to build on their momentum and secure back-to-back wins to stay near the top of the points table.
Probable Playing XI for DC:
- Adam Rossington
- Shai Hope (wk)
- Rovman Powell
- Dasun Shanaka
- Sikandar Raza (c)
- Brandon McMullen
- Gulbadin Naib
- Zahir Khan
- Ollie Stone
- Farhan Khan
- Obed McCoy
Key Players to Watch for DC:
- Brandon McMullen: Scored 58 runs in the opening game and is in good touch. He can provide stability in the middle order.
- Sikandar Raza: The skipper and all-rounder brings experience and can contribute with both bat and ball.
- Ollie Stone: The fast bowler was impressive in the powerplay and will be key to taking early wickets.
Head-to-Head Record: MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals
- Matches Played: 3
- MIE Wins: 1
- DC Wins: 2
Best Dream11 team & Dream11 Prediction for MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals
Where to Watch MIE vs DC, MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals Live?
The match will be broadcast live on Zee Network and can also be streamed on the FanCode app and website.
