ILT20: Nicholas Pooran’s Half-Century in Vain as Gulbadin Naib Powers Capitals to a Thrilling Victory

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In a nail-biting opening match of ILT20 2025, Dubai Capitals edged past MI Emirates by one run in a dramatic low-scoring encounter. Despite Nicholas Pooran’s valiant half-century, the Emirates collapsed in the final overs, thanks to Gulbadin Naib’s game-changing over and a disciplined bowling display from Olly Stone and Farhan Khan.

Dubai Capitals Struggle but Post 133

After being invited to bat first, Dubai Capitals found themselves in early trouble. Fazalhaq Farooqi was exceptional with the new ball, claiming a stunning five-wicket haul. He struck in the powerplay, dismissing Shai Hope with a sharp delivery that found the fielder at deep square leg. The Capitals struggled to build momentum and slumped to 54/3.

Brandon McMullen anchored the innings with a crucial knock of 58 runs off 42 balls, smashing four boundaries and three sixes. However, the lack of support from the lower order meant the Capitals could only post 133/8 in their 20 overs. Farooqi’s figures of 5/16 were the highlight of the innings, with Alzarri Joseph and Zahoor Khan chipping in with one wicket each.

MI Emirates Collapse Under Pressure

Chasing a modest target, MI Emirates endured a disastrous start. Olly Stone struck on just the second ball, clean bowling Muhammad Waseem, and continued to trouble the batters. Andre Fletcher fell for a nine-ball duck, while Tom Banton and Kusal Perera couldn’t hold the fort, leaving Emirates reeling at 23/4 within five overs.

With the top order dismantled, captain Nicholas Pooran stepped up to rescue his team. He formed a gritty 79-run partnership with Akeal Hosein, rebuilding the innings and keeping MI Emirates in the hunt. Pooran’s composed half-century, laced with timely boundaries, gave his team a fighting chance. Hosein contributed 30 off 31 before falling to Gulbadin Naib in the 18th over.

Dubai Capitals Snatch Victory in the Final Overs

Just as the game seemed to be slipping away, Gulbadin Naib turned the tide. His two-wicket over in the 18th removed the dangerous Nicholas Pooran and Alzarri Joseph, setting the stage for a thrilling finish. Olly Stone delivered a near-perfect 19th over, conceding just one run and increasing the pressure on the Emirates.

With 13 needed off the final over, young Farhan Khan showcased remarkable composure. He mixed his deliveries cleverly, denying Kieron Pollard the big hits he needed. Despite a boundary on the final ball, Pollard fell two runs short, sealing Dubai Capitals’ sensational one-run victory.

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