The owner of the Mumbai Indians franchise in the IPL, Akash Ambani, bought a franchise in both the ILT20 league and the SA20 league. His franchise in the ILT20 competition is named MI Emirates, whereas his team is known as MI Cape Town in the SA20 league.
Both these teams have announced their captains for the inaugural season of the league. The former West Indies legend, Kieron Pollard, will lead the MI Emirates side. In comparison, Afghanistan’s superstar, Rashid Khan, will be in charge of the MI Cape Town team.
How Do Both Teams Stack Up?
Talking about the MI Cape Town, they recently announced Jofra Archer as their wildcard signing. Archer has been out of the sport since March 2021. But, he is close to full fitness and a priceless asset to have. Apart from him, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, and Olly Pope are the other English cricketers in the Cape Town squad. Also, there’s no shortage of stars amongst the local cricketers.
The likes of Kagiso Rabada, Dewald Brevis, and Rassie van der Dussen have also been roped in by them. With Rashid Khan leading their side, MI Emirates already looks like the team to beat in the SA20 league. The team will play under the coaching of Simon Katich.
In contrast, MI Emirates’ core set of players doesn’t include English or Proteas cricketers. Led by Kieron Pollard, they have got Nicholas Pooran and Dwayne Bravo on their side. The experience of Imran Tahir and Trent Boult further strengthens their team. Shane Bond will be the head coach of the MI Emirates team.
A Message from the Owner
The owner of the three MI franchises, Akash Ambani, seemed delighted with both appointments. He said:
“We have an amazing mix of talent, experience, and passion in both our captains. I’m convinced that Polly and Rashid will take forward the MI ethos and MI brand of cricket. Both will work with our excellent coaching teams to infuse the MI spirit in MI Emirates and MI Cape Town and win the hearts of cricket fans in UAE and South Africa.”
