CMC – The MI Emirates delivered a commanding performance with both bat and ball to secure a 28-run victory over the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium here on Tuesday, as action continued in the ILT20.
Key contributions from Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran ensured the Emirates stayed within two points of the league leaders, the Desert Vipers.

Batting first, the MI Emirates got off to a steady start as openers Kusal Perera (23) and Muhammad Waseem (38) added 42 runs for the first wicket. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, and at 102-4, the innings needed a boost.
Skipper Pooran led the charge with a brisk 49, but it was Shepherd who stole the show at the death. The swashbuckling right-hander smashed an unbeaten 38 off just 13 balls, including three sixes and four boundaries which powered the team to a formidable 186-6.  Jason Holder bagged 2 for 38 and Ali Khan 2 for 58.

In response, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders started aggressively, with Kyle Mayers (22) and Andries Gous (34) putting up 39 runs in quick time. But the MI Emirates bowlers led by Shepherd and Alzarri Joseph turned the tide.
Both pacers claimed two wickets each, while Waqar Salamkheil and Zahoor Khan kept the pressure on. Despite a late effort from  Andre Russell (37 not out), the Knight Riders fell short, managing only 158-9.

Player of the Match Shepherd was pleased that his all-round effort was able to get his team over the line.“It felt good, and we knew how important this game was. I was relaxed because  Pooran was there, and I just focused on getting to the last over and making it count. Performing in one department

boosts your confidence in the other,” said Shepherd.