Mumbai Indians Emirates clinched the victory in the second season of the International T20 League by defeating Dubai Capitals in the final at Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. The Emirates team posted a formidable total of 208 in their allotted 20 overs and showcased disciplined bowling to outclass the Capitals by 45 runs.
Under the captaincy of Sam Billings, the Capitals won the toss and chose to field. Nevertheless, Muhammad Waseem and Kusal Perera made an explosive start for the Emirates, forming a formidable 77-run opening partnership in just 6.4 overs.
While the partnership between Andre Fletcher and Perera was brief, the former teamed up with captain Nicholas Pooran to contribute 56 runs off 33 balls. Pooran emerged as the top-scorer with an unbeaten 57 off 27.
In the first over of the Capitals’ innings, left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein made an impact by dismissing Leus du Plooy for a duck. Among the main batters, Tom Banton and Billings initiated promising innings but fell at crucial junctures, leaving their team in a challenging position.
Billings led the scoring with 40, but contributions from Sikandar Raza and Rovman Powell were lacking, making the target unattainable. Emirates’ bowlers Trent Boult and Vijaykanth Viyaskanth each secured two wickets.
“I am delighted to be a member of this team”- MI Emirates Captain
During the post-match presentation, MI Emirates captain Nicholas Pooran commended his team for showcasing the right attitude and expressed pride in the franchise’s remarkably successful performance.
The wicketkeeper-batsman stated:
“It was amazing, truly special to be man of the match in the final. We spoke about having the right energy and attitude. We did the hardwork to get here, just had to finish it off. I just wanted to understand the conditions and play best according to the situation.”
“Couldn’t ask for anything else. We played everything, and it was nice to see the execution. The Mumbai Indians now have the most number of trophies ever as a franchise, really happy to be part of this team. I think everyone in the team has the same agenda, the same culture.”
Pooran secured the Player of the Match accolade, while Raza was bestowed with the Player of the Series award.
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