ILT20 2025, Match 14 Review: Romario Shepherd, Nicholas Pooran power MI Emirates to important win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

The MI Emirates produced a clinical display with the bat and the ball, handing the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders a 28-run defeat at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the Match 14 of International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 on Tuesday, January 21.

The MI Emirates had the likes of Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran to thank as they played a crucial part in helping their side get to within two points of the table toppers. The MI Emirates’ bowlers were in fine form on the night, with four of them picking a wicket each, while Alzarri Joseph and Shepherd bagged two each to derail the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ chase.

Put into bat first, the MI Emirates started off well, with openers Kusal Perera and Muhammad Waseem (38) put a fine stand at the top. After the duo put on a 42-run stand, the Sri Lankan Perera was the first to depart for 23, just before the end of the powerplay. In walked Tom Banton, and along with Waseem ensured the MI Emirates kept the scoreboard ticking. The MI Emirates, who had slowed down for a few overs in the middle, eventually posted 186/6.

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders got off to a quick start, as openers Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous took the attack to the MI Emirates bowlers. Mayers, who smashed three sixes, scored 22 off 14 deliveries, before Dan Mousley ran him out with a fine a piece of fielding. That ended a 39-run stand in the fourth over, after which the MI Emirates took control. Andre Russell, who remained unbeaten on 37 from 23 deliveries, could not take his side over the line as the MI Emirates came away with a comfortable win on the night.

Player of the match Romario Shepherd said, “It feels good, and we knew how important this game was. I was relaxed because Nicholas Pooran was there, and I was just trying to get to the last over and see what I could get. Whenever you do well in one department, it gives you confidence.”

Brief Scores

MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs

MI Emirates 186/6 in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 49, Romario Shepherd 38 not out, Muhammad Waseem 38, Jason Holder 2 for 38, Ali Khan 2 for 58)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 158/9 in 20 overs (Andre Russell 37 not out, Andries Gous 34, Romario Shepherd 2/14, Alzarri Joseph 2/33, Waqar Salamkheil 1/13)

Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd