Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report For DC Vs MIE ILT20 Match

Anurag Dasgupta

Dubai cricket stadium to host opening ILT20 game [Source: @HashTagCricket/X.Com] Dubai cricket stadium to host opening ILT20 game [Source: @HashTagCricket/X.Com]

The wait is over and the stage is set for the first match of the ILT20 2025 between the Dubai Capitals and MI Emirates from the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The match will take place on Saturday, January 11 and will feature two strong teams.

The two title favourites will collide against each other as the ILT20 is set to start with a riveting battle. Both Dubai Capitals and MI Emirates have made handful of changes in their squad and are well oiled for this season.

Interestingly, both the sides reached the finals last season and it was the MI Emirates who captured the title and added another trophy in their elusive franchise history. This season, Dubai will be eager for revenge and before the contest takes place, we take a look at the pitch conditions and how will it affect the outcome.

Dubai International Cricket Stadium stats and records (last season)

Criteria
Data
Matches played15
Matches won by batting first5
Matches won batting second10

Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Is it batting or bowling friendly?

It is generally. a venue which is not the most favourable for batters and their stroke-making abilities. The surface, especially during the afternoon matches is slow and the batters find it hard to time the ball.

A prime example of this is the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, where majority of the matches took place at this venue and the batters were not able to find their groove. However, under lights, it plays better as the ball skids through, allowing the batting side to assert dominance.

In the last 10 matches at the Dubai Stadium, spinners have taken 70 wickets, while the pacers have only scalped 42, showcasing that spinners are more effective here and tend to dominate the proceedings. The first match will start in the evening and hence, the toss winning team might look to bowl first.

Players to watch out for at Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Nicholas Pooran

Such tricky surfaces require someone to dominate the proceedings from ball one and Nicholas Pooran is that guy for his side. Even if the pitch stays on the slower side, Pooran has the ability to clear any fence with ease and will be a key player for the MI Emirates.

Akeal Hosein

Another West Indian on the cards, and this time a spinner. Akeal Hosein has the ability to pick wickets at any stage of the match and is one of the best T20 spinners going around. If the ball isn't coming onto the bat properly, Hosein can utilise the conditions to his advantage.

Sikandar Raza

Sikandar Raza can bat, he can bowl and can be a very good utility player for his side. His onslaught in the middle overs will be vital for the Dubai Capitals and the wily bowler can also chip in with crucial overs which could decide the fate of the contest at this venue.