International League T20 2025-26

MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals Prediction & Match Preview – ILT20 2025-26

Fixture–
Date27 Dec 2025
Time2:30 pm GMT / 6:30 pm local
VenueSheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Our verdict

Dubai Capitals

A close contest between the second and third-placed sides, with the Capitals’ balanced line-up given a narrow edge.

Toss pick: MI Emirates

International League T20 2025-26 MI Emirates Dubai Capitals Sheikh Zayed Stadium

MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals meet at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, 27 December, in the 2025-26 International League T20, with playoff places in sight.

Kieron Pollard’s MI Emirates are second in the standings and arrive on a four-match winning streak. A win here would confirm their spot in the playoffs. The likely XI features Muhammad Waseem, Tom Banton, Nicholas Pooran, Pollard and Shakib Al Hasan, with Romario Shepherd, Allah Ghazanfar and Fazalhaq Farooqi in the bowling group.

Dubai Capitals sit just behind in third and see the game as a chance to strengthen their position and secure a playoff berth. Mohammad Nabi is expected to captain a side that could include Jordan Cox, James Neesham, David Willey and Mustafizur Rahman.

Both teams have strong batting line-ups, and our preview suggests batting first could carry a slight advantage, with a first-innings score of 165 to 180 expected.

Probable XIs

MI Emirates

Muhammad Waseem
Tom Banton
Sanjay Krishnamurthi
Nicholas Pooran (wk)
Kieron Pollard (c)
Shakib Al Hasan
Romario Shepherd
Arab Gul Momand
Allah Ghazanfar
Zahoor Khan
Fazalhaq Farooqi

Dubai Capitals

Sediqullah Atal
Shayan Jahangir (wk)
Jordan Cox
Leus du Plooy
James Neesham
Mohammad Nabi (c)
David Willey
Muhammad Jawadullah
Haider Ali
Waqar Salamkheil
Mustafizur Rahman

Pitch report

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium surface usually gives bat and ball a balanced contest. Pacers can get some bounce and movement in the first few overs, but the pitch settles quickly and favours strokeplay, helped by a smooth outfield. Spinners do not get dramatic turn but can control the middle overs with tight spells. The wicket is reliable, and teams often feel comfortable chasing unless it slows later in the evening.

Weather

Conditions at 6:30 pm local time are expected to be ideal, with temperatures of 23–25 °C, clear skies, light winds and no chance of rain.

Frequently asked questions

Who is expected to win MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals?

Our preview narrowly favours Dubai Capitals in what looks an even contest.

What is at stake?

MI Emirates, second in the table, can secure a playoff place with a win, and the third-placed Capitals also want to lock in theirs.

Where is the match played?

At Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on 27 December 2025, starting at 6:30 pm local time.

About International League T20 2025-26

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