MI Emirates clinched a decisive victory against Dubai Capitals, winning by eight wickets at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on December 27. This win secures their position in the top two, setting them up for a matchup against the Desert Vipers in Qualifier 1 on December 30.
In the next phase of the tournament, the outcome of the upcoming match between Gulf Giants and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders will determine who will face the Dubai Capitals in the Eliminator on January 1.
MI Emirates showcased their spin bowling prowess, spearheaded by Allah Ghazanfar, who took three wickets for 28 runs. Shakib Al Hasan also contributed significantly, returning impressive figures of 1/11 in four overs, which limited Dubai Capitals to a total of 122 runs. Leading the batting effort, Kieron Pollard’s unbeaten 44 runs off 31 balls helped MI Emirates secure their fifth consecutive win.
The match began with a strong start from openers Muhammad Waseem and Andre Fletcher, who put together a 33-run partnership in the first three overs. Both players remained not out at the end of the powerplay, propelling MI Emirates to 45 runs without loss after six overs.
The first breakthrough for Dubai Capitals happened in the seventh over when Haider Ali dismissed Waseem LBW, halting a promising opening partnership at 47 runs. Fletcher continued to score alongside Tom Banton, who made 28 off 20 balls, but was run out in the tenth over. Despite the loss, MI Emirates maintained a healthy position at 59/2 at the halfway mark.
Subsequently, Kieron Pollard guided the innings with stability as he and Banton navigated the middle overs. Pollard’s explosive batting came to the forefront in the 14th over, where he scored 30 runs off Waqar Salamkheil, significantly reducing the required runs to just 10 from the final five overs. The match concluded in an emphatic manner with Pollard and Banton putting together an unbeaten 67-run partnership off 43 balls.
Earlier in the game, MI Emirates opted to field first and quickly placed pressure on the Dubai Capitals. Shakib Al Hasan struck early, dismissing Shayan Jahangir, and Allah Ghazanfar followed suit by taking out Sediqullah Atal, leaving Dubai Capitals at a precarious 35/2.
The situation worsened for the Capitals when Leus de Plooy was run out and Dan Mousley dismissed Rovman Powell shortly after, leaving them struggling at 53/5 within the first ten overs. James Neesham briefly countered with some aggressive boundaries, but Ghazanfar dismissed him with a return catch, further crippling their innings.
In a moment of recovery, Mohammad Nabi and Scott Currie managed to add 28 runs for the eighth wicket, but Currie’s dismissal by Fazalhaq Farooqi brought the innings to a near halt. Nabi fought to remain not out, while Zahoor Khan’s economical bowling in the final over ensured a strong finish for MI Emirates.
Post-match, Ghazanfar expressed satisfaction with his performance, emphasizing the importance of staying true to his plans and executing variations effectively. In response, Dubai Capitals captain Mohammad Nabi acknowledged that their total was inadequate on the day, commending MI Emirates for their bowling display while expressing confidence in bouncing back in their next game.