Shakib shines as MI Emirates reach ILT20 final

Bangladesh star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan produced a commanding all-round performance as MI Emirates secured a seven-wicket victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ILT20 Qualifier 2 at Sharjah on Friday to book a place in the final.

Shakib played a key role with the ball as MI Emirates restricted Abu Dhabi Knight Riders to 120 for eight in their allotted 20 overs. Bowling four economical overs, the left-arm spinner conceded just 20 runs. He was ably supported by Afghanistan's AM Ghazanfar, who claimed 3-24, while Fazalhaq Farooqi (2-30) and Muhammad Rohid (2-19) chipped in with two wickets apiece.

The 38-year-old then made his presence felt with the bat at a crucial stage of the chase. Shakib walked in during the eighth over with MI Emirates reeling at 36 for two and Tom Banton struggling to find his timing.

However, Shakib quickly settled into his stride, easing the pressure on his partner and taking control of the chase. He struck two boundaries off Piyush Chawla in the 11th over before accelerating sharply in the following over, plundering 17 runs off Liam Livingstone with the help of two fours and a six.

The pair put on an 82-run stand, with Banton anchoring the innings to finish unbeaten on 63 off 53 balls. Shakib, meanwhile, struck five fours and a six before being dismissed in the 16th over, with MI Emirates needing just three runs to win. Banton then sealed the chase as MI Emirates reached the target with 23 balls to spare.

Shakib's all-round contribution earned him the Player of the Match award.