Afghanistan legspinner Rashid Khan has joined the MI Emirates squad for the ongoing ILT20 2025-26, replacing England allrounder Jordan Thompson, who has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament due to injury. Though Rashid’s arrival strengthens the squad, he will not be available for the entire season.
Rashid, 27, is already well connected with the wider MI franchise network. He captains MI Cape Town in the SA20 and earlier this year guided them to their first-ever title, defeating Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the final. He has also featured for MI New York in Major League Cricket in 2023 and 2024, although he opted out of the most recent season. Rashid previously turned out for MI Emirates in 2023, playing two matches and picking up four wickets, giving the team a glimpse of his impact in the format.
Despite his inclusion, Rashid is expected to stay with MI Emirates only until December 20, after which he will travel to South Africa for SA20 2025-26. MI Cape Town open their campaign on December 26 against Durban’s Super Giants, making his early departure necessary.
MI Emirates, champions of ILT20 2024, will open their season against Gulf Giants in Dubai on December 4. Under the leadership of Kieron Pollard, the team has consistently reached the playoffs in all three previous editions and will aim to continue that strong run.
The ILT20 2025-26 season began on December 2, with Desert Vipers defeating last year’s champions, Dubai Capitals, in the curtain-raiser. Rashid’s short but potentially crucial stint is expected to add experience and quality to MI Emirates as they begin their title defence.
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