Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report For MIE vs GG ILT20 2025 Match

Jatin

Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report [Source: @ICC/x.com]Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report [Source: @ICC/x.com]

It’s game time at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi as MI Emirates take on Gulf Giants in Match 19 of the International League T20, 2025, on Saturday, January 25. MI Emirates are on a roll, while the Gulf Giants are struggling big time, making this clash all the more exciting.

MI Emirates

MI Emirates have been on fire this season, winning three out of their first five games so far. In their fifth match, they secured a solid 28-run win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, where they showed why they’re one of the teams to beat.

In that game, Nicholas Pooran (49) and Muhammad Waseem (38) gave MI a good platform with steady knocks. But it was Romario Shepherd who stole the show. The big-hitter smashed a jaw-dropping 38 off just 13 balls, lighting up the final overs and taking MI to a strong 186/6.

With the ball, Alzarri Joseph and Shepherd were on point again, as they grabbed two wickets each. Their disciplined bowling choked the ADKR batters, making it an easy win for MI. Heading into this game, MI will be feeling confident and looking to extend their winning run.

Gulf Giants

It’s been a season to forget for the Gulf Giants so far. With just one win in five matches, they’re stuck at the wrong end of the table. Their last match against Dubai Capitals ended in a five-wicket loss, and nothing seems to be going their way.

Batting first, Jordan Cox fought hard with a gritty 70, but the rest of the batting lineup couldn’t step up. They managed only 153/5, which was never going to be enough on a good batting pitch.

Their bowling wasn’t bad, with Aayan Afzal Khan bagging two wickets, but there wasn’t enough firepower to defend the target. For the Giants, this game is a must-win, and they’ll need a complete team effort to bounce back.

Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Stats And Records In T20s

Criterion
Data
Matches Played68
Matches Won Batting 1st29
Matches Won Bowling 1st39
Average 1st Innings Score143.3
Average 2nd Innings Score133.3



Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The pitch at Sheikh Zayed Stadium has been a batter’s srface this season. With an average first-innings score of 174, it’s been all about big runs. The bounce is true,and the ball comes on nicely, which makes it easy for batters to play their shots.

Fast bowlers might get some swing early on, especially with the new ball but it’s a pitch where batters have dominated. Interestingly, the first three of the four games at this venue have been won by teams batting first, so captains might look to set a target here. Dew could play a role later, but it hasn’t been a major factor so far.

Players To Watch Out For At Sheikh Zayed Stadium

Nicholas Pooran

  • Nicholas Pooran has been MI Emirates' batting backbone this season. With 184 runs in 5 matches at an impressive average of 46.00 and a blistering strike rate of 173.58, Pooran has been the glue holding MI’s batting together. 
  • His ability to counter both pace and spin makes him a dangerous batter on any surface. Expect Pooran to lead from the front and anchor MI’s innings once again.

Aayan Afzal Khan

  • Aayan Afzal Khan has been a shining light in an otherwise gloomy season for the Giants. The all-rounder has picked up 8 wickets in 5 matches at an amazing economy of just 5.08. 
  • His standout performance, a 4/16 spell displayed his ability to take crucial wickets while keeping runs in check. With the Giants eager for a win, Aayan’s contributions with the ball will be extremely important.

Fazalhaq Farooqi

  • Fazalhaq Farooqi has been nothing short of sensational this season as he has snagged12 wickets in 5 matches at an outstanding average of 11.83. 
  • His five-wicket haul against Dubai Capitals showcased his ability to dismantle batting lineups with ease. On a pitch that offers early movement, Farooqi could spell trouble for the Giants’ top order.