The third edition of the ILT20 will start from January 11 with an encore of last year’s final between MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals. Here's Wisden's pick of the betting odds for the match.
Dubai Capitals v MI Emirates ILT20 2025: Who will win the season opener?
The MI Emirates topped the table last season with six wins from 10 matches, while Dubai Capitals finished the group stage fourth with five wins and as many losses.
In the summit clash between them last year, MIE racked up 208-3 before restricting DC to 163-7 to win the title. MIE captain Nicholas Pooran earned the Player of the Match for his 27-ball 57 not out.
Entering as titleholders, MIE are favourites to win the season opener against DC. Stake is offering a return of 1.57 on their victory, compared to DC’s 2.4.
According to Batery, the odds are heavily titled in the defending champions’ favour as well, offering the same return as Stake.
DC v MIE: Which side will hit most fours and sixes?
With Pooran as their captain and the likes of Kieron Pollard, and Romario Shepherd, MIE have a formidable group of power hitters. Pooran had an outstanding 2024 finishing with 2,331 runs in 74 T20 innings, the most by anyone that year. He hit 170 sixes, also the highest last year.
For DC, a lot will depend on the fiery opening duo of Jake Fraser-McGurk and David Warner. The former Australia international has a point to prove after being unsold in the IPL 2025 auction.
Overall, MIE’s well-rounded batting line-up makes them the favourite to hit more fours. They are priced at 1.78 on Stake, compared to DC’s 2.3. In terms of sixes, MIE remain a safe bet as well at 1.63 compared to DC’s 2.9.
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
