MI Emirates has announced two significant wildcard signings for the upcoming International League T20 (ILT20) Season 4: Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran. This exciting addition brings two of the West Indies’ most prominent T20 stars back under the familiar MI banner, injecting fresh energy into the tournament. Kieron Pollard, a legendary figure in T20 cricket, returns to MI Emirates. His vast experience, leadership qualities, and exceptional power-hitting prowess are invaluable assets. Pollard has a long-standing association with the MI franchise, having been a cornerstone of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL and a key strategist for other MI global teams. Nicholas Pooran, a dynamic and explosive middle-order batter, solidifies MI Emirates’ batting lineup. Renowned for his ability to dramatically change the course of a match, Pooran’s presence significantly enhances the team’s depth and firepower. The reunion of Pollard and Pooran, who have previously played together and achieved success in various franchise leagues, is anticipated to evoke the distinctive Caribbean flair associated with the MI brand. The ILT20 wildcard rule allows teams to strategically bolster their squads with top talent outside of the primary draft and retention process. MI Emirates’ choice to secure Pollard and Pooran highlights a strategic focus on combining seasoned leadership with aggressive batting capabilities. While Pollard may be transitioning into a mentoring role, he remains a formidable match-winner. Pooran offers agility as a wicket-keeper and explosive batting in the crucial middle overs, addressing key areas of reinforcement for the team. ILT20 Season 4 is scheduled to commence on December 2, 2025, with MI Emirates facing the Gulf Giants in their opening match on December 4. With these high-profile wildcard additions, MI Emirates appears to possess one of the most formidable and balanced squads, featuring a strong mix of international experience and promising local UAE talent. The coaching staff and management are optimistic that Pollard and Pooran’s integration will bring both stability and dynamic play to the team.
