ILT20 Live: MI Emirates Win Big Despite Shai Hope's Century

The ILT20 2025 match saw MI Emirates secure a 26-run victory over Dubai Capitals, despite a century from Shai Hope, and with the third edition of the International League T20 set to kick off on January 11 in Dubai, excitement is building for the upcoming tournament.

The Emirates' win was fueled by half-centuries from Tom Banton, Nicholas Pooran, and Kieron Pollard, who collectively contributed to a total of 187/7. Fazalhaq Farooqi's impressive bowling, with 2/22, played a crucial role in securing the win for the Emirates. However, Shai Hope's century, the first for the Capitals and the third in the competition's history, was not enough to bring home a win for his team, which fell short at 161. Hope modestly noted that centuries are "sweeter when they contribute to a win," a sentiment echoed by Banton, who attributed the Emirates' success to anchoring the innings.

As the third edition of the ILT20 approaches, six teams are set to compete, including the defending champions, MI Emirates, as well as the Dubai Capitals, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Gulf Giants, and Sharjah Warriors. The league stage will see each team play each other twice, followed by the Qualifier 1 and 2, Eliminator, and a Final. With a strong squad and key players like captain Pooran, Kieron Pollard, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, the Emirates are looking to reclaim their title, while the Vipers, led by new captain Lockie Ferguson, are expected to pose a challenge.

The ILT20 promises to be an exciting tournament, with a number of talented players to watch, including Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan, and Romario Shepherd. As the tournament clashes with several other T20 leagues, including the SA20, BPL, BBL, and New Zealand's Super Smash, fans of the sport are in for a treat, with plenty of action to look forward to. The tournament is set to run from January 11 to February 9, with 34 matches to be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.