In a stunning display of defensive cricket, MI Emirates clinched a nail-biting seven-run victory against Dubai Capitals in the DP World ILT20 Season 4 clash at Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday. Defending a modest total of 137/8, the Emirates orchestrated a remarkable turnaround that saw them leapfrog their opponents into third place on the tournament table.
The match pivoted dramatically when Rashid Khan’s crucial two-wicket intervention shattered the Capitals’ commanding position. Despite a strong foundation built by Jordan Cox (46 off 41) and Shayan Jahangir (34 off 27), who hammered 51 runs during the powerplay, the Capitals’ chase unraveled spectacularly in the final overs.
Earlier, Jonny Bairstow’s explosive 67 off 40 deliveries, featuring eight boundaries and three sixes, provided the cornerstone of MI Emirates’ innings. His 30-ball half-century seemed to set a competitive platform until Muhammad Jawadullah’s brilliant spell (2/7) and Mustafizur Rahman’s devastating 3/34 triggered a collapse that limited the Emirates to what appeared to be a below-par total.
The turning point arrived during the penultimate over when Naveen-ul-Haq dismissed both Cox and Mohammad Nabi within three deliveries, effectively sealing the Capitals’ fate. The final over witnessed three more wickets falling as the Capitals capitulated at 130 all out.
Post-match, Player of the Match Rashid Khan emphasized the team’s collective effort: ‘Today was a proper team effort and bowling performance. The way we fielded gave us the energy needed to defend this total.’
Dubai Capitals captain Dasun Shanaka reflected on missed opportunities: ‘We bowled exceptionally well, but crucial dropped catches and my own dismissal at a critical juncture ultimately cost us the game.’