MI Emirates Reach Final on the Back of Shakibs All-round Brilliance

MI Emirates booked their place in the final of the International League T20 after a dominant seven-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in Qualifier 2, powered by an outstanding all-round performance from Shakib Al Hasan. From start to finish, the match remained firmly under the control of Shakib and his teammates.

Bowling first, Shakib was disciplined and consistent. He conceded just 20 runs in his four overs, effectively restricting the opposition’s scoring rate. Although he did not pick up a wicket, his tight spell built pressure, allowing the other bowlers to strike regularly from the opposite end. Largely due to Shakib’s economical bowling, the Knight Riders failed to push their total beyond 120.

With the bat, Shakib made the real difference. Coming in under pressure, he played a responsible yet aggressive knock of 38 off 24 balls. His innings, decorated with five fours and a six at a strike rate of over 158, laid the foundation for the chase. His partnership with Tom Banton steadied MI Emirates and put them firmly on course for victory. Smart shot selection combined with timely aggression quickly turned the contest into a one-sided affair.

MI Emirates reached the target in just 16.1 overs. For his impactful contributions with both bat and ball, Shakib Al Hasan was rightly named Player of the Match. With this crucial win, MI Emirates marched into the final, led by the heroics of Bangladesh’s experienced all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan.