MI Emirates delivered an outstanding performance as they faced the Desert Vipers in the 22nd match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025, played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on January 17, 2025. With the wind behind them, MI Emirates claimed victory by 154 runs, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.
Having lost two consecutive matches, MI Emirates was eager to bounce back. They won the toss and opted to bat first. Their innings started shakily with the early dismissal of Muhammad Waseem for 19 runs. But the real magic unfolded when Tom Banton and Andre Fletcher took control of the game, stitching together a remarkable partnership.
Banton and Fletcher together set the record for the highest-ever partnership in ILT20 history, scoring 198 runs for the second wicket. Banton, the standout performer, smashed 105 runs off just 55 balls, hitting nine fours and seven sixes. Fletcher wasn’t far behind, contributing 96 runs from 50 balls, peppered with ten fours and three sixes. Their explosive batting not only solidified MI Emirates’ position but left fans and analysts stunned as they finished their innings at a formidable total of 228 runs for the loss of two wickets.
The Desert Vipers, sitting atop the points table prior to this match, faced a formidable challenge as they began their innings. Unfortunately for them, they struggled to counter MI Emirates' bowling attack, losing wickets at regular intervals. Star batsmen such as Fakhar Zaman and Alex Hales were dismissed cheaply, with Zaman scoring just 7 runs and Hales contributing only 3. The Vipers faltered with the bat, collapsing to 74 all out within just 12.3 overs.
MI Emirates showcased their bowling prowess with Muhammad Rohid Khan and Alzarri Joseph each taking three wickets, supported by Fazalhaq Farooqi, who chipped in with two wickets. The Vipers never recovered from the early setbacks, with only Daniel Lawrence (9 runs) and Azam Khan (12 runs) managing to reach double figures.
This comprehensive defeat of the Desert Vipers gives MI Emirates much-needed momentum as they look to regain their footing within the tournament. With this win, they move closer to the top positions and can now set their eyes on future matches, having demonstrated both their batting and bowling capabilities.
Focusing on the record-breaking partnership, it’s noteworthy how Banton's and Fletcher's performance not only marked them as key players for MI Emirates but also engrained their names in ILT20 history, surpassing the previous mark of 164 runs established by Alex Hales and Colin Munro. This impressive knock by Banton highlights his significance in the team, especially after having faced fluctuations earlier in the season.
The match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium also proved to be instrumental for the MI Emirates, allowing them to showcase their strengths under pressure. With favorable conditions for batting and the pitch offering some assistance to seamers, the team was able to capitalize on the situation fully.
What remains to be seen is how this victory impacts the Desert Vipers. Currently, they're still among the top teams, having maintained impressive form throughout the season until this match. They will need to regroup quickly as they aim to bounce back from the defeat and strengthen their spot for the upcoming fixtures.
Looking at the statistics, MI Emirates now has four wins from eight matches, improving their position significantly on the points table. This victory may be just what they needed to kickstart the latter half of the tournament.
Overall, the 22nd match of ILT20 2025 served up plenty of excitement and drama, especially with MI Emirates stamping their authority over the Desert Vipers. The highlight will undoubtedly be the record partnership between Banton and Fletcher, which many hope is just the beginning for MI Emirates as they chase their path to the championship.