MI Emirates showcased a brilliant all-round performance to defeat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Tuesday, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Player of the match Romario Shepherd played a key role, smashing an unbeaten 38 off just 13 balls and taking 2/14 with the ball.
“It was an important game for us,” Shepherd said after the match. “Before we came to the ground, we all discussed how crucial this win would be to separate ourselves a bit on the table. Tonight, we had to fight for our points.”
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Shepherd also reflected on his explosive batting in the final overs. “The process was just to keep my eyes on the ball and play what I saw. I knew there were gaps outside the circle and aimed to capitalise whenever he missed,” he explained.
On his bowling contributions, Shepherd credited teamwork and clarity in execution. “Pooran asked me to finish off the powerplay. The ball was doing something at that stage, so I just hit my lengths and got the breakthrough,” he noted.
Speaking about his first ILT20 season, Shepherd said, “It’s good for us to continue building and growing in this tournament. There are no easy teams; you have to fight for every point.”
For the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, all-rounder Kyle Mayers acknowledged the turning points that cost them the match. “We controlled the game for 18 overs but gave away 40 runs in the last two overs, which proved costly. We lost too many wickets in the middle, and that made the difference,” he admitted.
Mayers remained optimistic about their playoff chances. “We haven’t played to our best yet. This team is full of potential, and once we pick up momentum, we’ll be a force to reckon with,” he said.
Reflecting on his role and the competition, Mayers added, “I enjoy doing my part for the team, whether it’s batting or bowling. This league is tough – there’s no hiding. The fast bowlers have been enjoying the tricky conditions, and it’s a good challenge for us as professionals.”
With this victory, MI Emirates are now within two points of the table toppers, while the Knight Riders face a steep challenge to stay in the playoff race.
