ILT20 2025-26: Rashid Khan replaces injured Jordan Thompson in MI Emirates squad

Published - 04 Dec 2025, 17:47 IST | Updated - 04 Dec 2025, 17:51 IST

Afghanistan legspinner Rashid Khan has replaced England allrounder Jordan Thompson in the MI Emirates squad for the ongoing ILT20 2025-26 season. Thompson has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury, prompting the franchise to turn to one of T20 cricket’s most prolific bowlers as his replacement.

The 27-year-old is no stranger to the MI setup, having been a key figure across their global network of teams. Earlier this year, he captained MI Cape Town to their maiden SA20 title, defeating Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the final.

Rashid has also represented MI New York in Major League Cricket (MLC) during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, although he opted out of the 2025 edition. For MI Emirates, he previously featured in two matches in 2023, where he picked up four wickets and showcased his trademark control and guile.

However, Rashid will not be available for the entire ILT20 season, which runs until January 4, 2026. He is expected to stay with the squad until around December 20 before travelling to South Africa to join MI Cape Town for the SA20 2025-26 season, where they open their campaign against Durban’s Super Giants on December 26.

MI Emirates, the champions of ILT20 2024, begin their title defence against the Gulf Giants in Dubai on December 4. In 2024, MI Emirates defeated Dubai Capitals by 45 runs in the final, securing their first trophy in the league’s history. Under the leadership of Kieron Pollard, the team has consistently performed well, qualifying for the playoffs in each of the previous three editions. They finished fourth last season and will be eager to bounce back strongly in the current campaign.

Rashid Khan remains the leading wicket-taker in T20 cricket, with an astounding 681 wickets in 499 matches, underscoring the value he brings to any side he represents. The ILT20 2025-26 season began on December 2, with Desert Vipers defeating defending champions Dubai Capitals, while Abu Dhabi Knight Riders opened their account with a win over Sharjah Warriorz on December 3.