MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Prediction: Who Will Win 21st T20 ILT20 Match on 20th December 2025?
The MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction points toward an evenly matched contest as both teams enter the business end of the ILT20 2025 with momentum on their side. Scheduled at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, this clash carries significant playoff implications. MI Emirates have shown resilience throughout the tournament, winning close games and holding their nerve in pressure situations, while Abu Dhabi Knight Riders are coming off a confidence-boosting win against Gulf Giants.
MI Emirates currently sit third on the points table and look more settled as a unit, especially with Jonny Bairstow leading the batting charts for the franchise. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Allah Ghazanfar and Naveen-ul-Haq, has managed to defend modest totals, which speaks volumes about their discipline. On the other hand, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders rely heavily on the firepower of Liam Livingstone, Andre Russell, and Jason Holder. When these players click together, ADKR can dismantle any opposition.
The Sheikh Zayed surface has generally favored bowlers who use variations smartly, which could make this a tactical battle rather than a high-scoring shootout. With both sides possessing strong all-rounders, the MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction leans slightly toward MI Emirates due to their better balance and recent form in crunch matches.
- MI Emirates and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders are fighting for a crucial top-four position
- Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone are key batters to watch
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium is expected to assist bowlers
- MI Emirates hold a slight edge due to team balance and recent form
Match Details
| Match | MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, 21st T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 20 December 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
| Tournament | International League T20 2025 |
MI Emirates Preview (Team Analysis)
MI Emirates have quietly built a solid campaign in ILT20 2025 and currently occupy the third position on the points table with three wins from six matches. Their strength lies in adaptability and composure under pressure. Despite not posting huge totals regularly, they have defended low scores successfully, which highlights the quality of their bowling attack and fielding standards.
Jonny Bairstow has been the backbone of their batting lineup, scoring 203 runs so far. His ability to counter both pace and spin has allowed MI Emirates to stay competitive even when early wickets fall. Muhammad Waseem has provided brisk starts, while Nicholas Pooran and Tom Banton have added stability in the middle order. However, MI Emirates still need more consistency from their lower-middle order, especially in crunch moments.
The bowling unit has been impressive. Allah Ghazanfar has emerged as a key wicket-taker, using his variations smartly in the middle overs. Naveen-ul-Haq and Fazalhaq Farooqi bring control with the new ball and at the death, while Romario Shepherd and Chris Woakes offer valuable all-round depth. Shakib Al Hasan’s presence further strengthens the spin department, especially on slower surfaces like Abu Dhabi.
MI Emirates’ narrow win over Dubai Capitals showcased their temperament and defensive skills. Even after being restricted to 137, their bowlers held their nerves and defended the total successfully. This ability to grind out results gives MI Emirates an edge heading into this contest.
Key Players: Jonny Bairstow, Allah Ghazanfar, Naveen-ul-Haq
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Preview (Team Analysis)
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have had a mixed season but remain firmly in the playoff race with three wins from seven matches. Their recent victory against Gulf Giants has restored confidence, particularly in their batting unit, which had been inconsistent earlier in the tournament.
Liam Livingstone has been their standout performer with the bat, accumulating 199 runs and providing explosive acceleration in the middle overs. Phil Salt and Alex Hales form a dangerous opening combination capable of giving ADKR strong starts. Andre Russell and Sherfane Rutherford add brute power to the lower middle order, making the team formidable during chases.
Bowling remains a slight concern for the Knight Riders. While Ajay Kumar has been excellent with 10 wickets, the rest of the attack has lacked consistency. Jason Holder provides control and leadership, and Sunil Narine’s experience can be vital on slow tracks. Piyush Chawla’s four-wicket haul in the previous match demonstrated how effective spin can be at this venue.
ADKR’s challenge will be maintaining balance. When their top order fails, the middle order often comes under pressure. To beat MI Emirates, they will need collective contributions rather than individual brilliance.
Key Players: Liam Livingstone, Ajay Kumar, Andre Russell
Also Check: Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
MI Emirates Squad
Jonny Bairstow, Muhammad Waseem, Nicholas Pooran, Tom Banton, Shakib Al Hasan, Romario Shepherd, Chris Woakes, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Allah Ghazanfar, Nosthush Kenjige, Andre Fletcher, Kamindu Mendis, Zahoor Khan, Usman Khan
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Squad
Alex Hales, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, Andre Russell, Jason Holder, Alishan Sharafu, Sherfane Rutherford, Sunil Narine, Piyush Chawla, Ajay Kumar, Ibrar Ahmed, Brandon McMullen, George Garton, Unmukt Chand
Probable Playing XI
| MI Emirates | Abu Dhabi Knight Riders |
|---|---|
| Jonny Bairstow | Alex Hales |
| Muhammad Waseem | Phil Salt |
| Nicholas Pooran | Liam Livingstone |
| Tom Banton | Andre Russell |
| Shakib Al Hasan | Jason Holder |
| Romario Shepherd | Sherfane Rutherford |
| Chris Woakes | Sunil Narine |
| Naveen-ul-Haq | Ajay Kumar |
| Fazalhaq Farooqi | Piyush Chawla |
| Allah Ghazanfar | Ibrar Ahmed |
| Zahoor Khan | George Garton |
MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Phil Salt |
| All-Rounders | Liam Livingstone, Andre Russell, Shakib Al Hasan |
| Bowlers | Allah Ghazanfar, Naveen-ul-Haq, Ajay Kumar, Piyush Chawla |
| Wicketkeeper | Nicholas Pooran |
This fantasy combination focuses on all-rounders and top-order batters who are most likely to face the maximum number of deliveries. Jonny Bairstow is a must-pick due to his consistency, while Alex Hales and Phil Salt offer explosive starts. Liam Livingstone and Andre Russell provide dual value with both bat and ball, making them ideal fantasy assets. Shakib Al Hasan adds balance and reliability in spin-friendly conditions. Among bowlers, Allah Ghazanfar and Ajay Kumar are strong wicket-taking options, while Naveen-ul-Haq’s death-over skills enhance point potential.
Captain Choices: Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone
Vice-Captain Choices: Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell
Players to Avoid: Unmukt Chand, George Garton
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – MI Emirates (Why?)
MI Emirates are the favourites in today’s MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction due to their superior balance and consistency. They have shown the ability to defend low totals, which is crucial on the slower Abu Dhabi surface. Jonny Bairstow’s form at the top gives them stability, while their bowling attack has delivered under pressure in multiple games. Unlike Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, who rely heavily on a few star players, MI Emirates function more as a collective unit. Their mix of experienced internationals and disciplined bowlers gives them a tactical edge in tight contests.
Pitch Report
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch traditionally favors bowlers, especially spinners and pacers with variations. Batting becomes challenging as the match progresses, and stroke-making requires patience. Teams batting first usually aim for 150–160, which is considered competitive here. Spinners play a major role in the middle overs, while cutters and slower deliveries are effective at the death.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected in Abu Dhabi with temperatures around 26–28°C. Humidity will be moderate, and there is no forecast of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the match.
Broadcast Details
The MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders match will be broadcast live on Zee Entertainment Network, with live streaming available on ZEE5 and FanCode for digital viewers.
Toss Prediction
The toss-winning captain is likely to bat first, as defending totals has proven effective at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Conditions tend to slow down under lights, favoring disciplined bowling sides.
Score Prediction
- If MI Emirates bat first: 145+
- If Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bat first: 145+
A score around 150 should be competitive, with bowlers expected to dominate proceedings.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman: Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone
Probable Bowler: Allah Ghazanfar, Ajay Kumar
Bairstow’s consistency makes him the most reliable run-scorer, while Livingstone’s power-hitting can change the game quickly. Ghazanfar’s control in the middle overs and Ajay Kumar’s wicket-taking ability make them key bowling threats.
Also Check For More: International League T20 Match Prediction
Match Prediction
As per the MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders prediction, MI Emirates hold a slight advantage due to their balanced squad and recent performances in close matches. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders can challenge them if their star players fire, but consistency favors MI Emirates.
Final Prediction: MI Emirates Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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