MI Emirates are a sister franchise of IPL team Mumbai Indians. This franchise plays in the International League T20 tournament of the United Arab Emirates. Like the Mumbai Indians, this team is owned by the Ambani family of India.
The Emirates team finished first in the standings of the 2024 International League T20 tournament and is set to play in the Qualifier 1 match against the Gulf Giants. Former Mumbai Indians players Nicholas Pooran and Kieron Pollard have captained the team this season.
While Pooran plays for Lucknow Super Giants and Pollard is retired from the IPL, the following three star players of MI Emirates should be in contention to earn an IPL contract from the Mumbai Indians franchise in the near future.
1. MI Emirates wicketkeeper Kusal Perera
Sri Lankan wicketkeeper batter Kusal Perera has produced many swashbuckling performances at the international level as well as league level. He is a left-handed explosive opener who can turn the game completely in his team’s favor with his big hits. Perera has been the top scorer for the Emirates team. Perhaps, Mumbai Indians can give him a chance in IPL.
2. Akeal Hosein
West Indies all-rounder Akeal Hosein played for the Sunrisers Hyderabad last season, but the franchise gave up on him quickly. Hosein can bowl economical spells in the powerplay and can also bat a bit. In ILT20, he has taken nine wickets in eight matches for Emirates, including one four-wicket haul.
3. Odean Smith
Pace bowling all-rounder Odean Smith can be a replacement for Kieron Pollard in the Mumbai Indians. Smith did a decent job for PBKS in 2022 and warmed the benches at GT in 2023. If backed well, Smith can be a game-changer for the Mumbai Indians in IPL.
