Afghanistan star Rashid Khan joins MI Emirates for the ILT20 season, stepping in for the injured Jordan Thompson, but will only be available until December 20 before returning to SA20 duties.
UAE | By Sara Amiri
Afghanistan star leg-spinner Rashid Khan has been drafted into the MI Emirates squad for the ongoing ILT20 2025-26, replacing England allrounder Jordan Thompson, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
Rashid, 27, is one of the most familiar faces across the MI franchise network. Earlier this year, he captained MI Cape Town to their first-ever SA20 title and has previously represented MI New York in Major League Cricket. He also made two appearances for MI Emirates in 2023, claiming four wickets.
However, Rashid will not be available for the full ILT20 season. He is expected to stay with MI Emirates only until December 20 before departing for South Africa to join MI Cape Town for the SA20 2025-26 campaign. The SA20 season begins on December 26, with MI Cape Town facing Durban’s Super Giants in the opener.
MI Emirates, the defending ILT20 champions, begin their season today against Gulf Giants in Dubai. Led by Kieron Pollard, the side has reached the playoffs in all three previous editions of the tournament.
The ILT20 season kicked off on December 2 with Desert Vipers defeating defending champions Dubai Capitals.