The Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise has roped in two of the biggest T20 stars from the West Indies. nicholas puran And Kieron Pollardto his MI Emirates squad as a wildcard selection ahead of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025–26 season. The powerhouse duo brings unmatched experience, leadership and championship-winning pedigree to the defending champions as they prepare for the new campaign starting on December 2, 2025 in the UAE.
Kieron Pollard brings leadership and championship pedigree
Pollard, one of the finest players in T20 history, joins MI Emirates after an illustrious career that includes 18 T20 titles around the world. Pollard’s achievements include five IPL titles with Mumbai Indians and the ILT20 trophy with MI Emirates in 2024, where he played a vital role both on and off the field.
Pollard has been a key figure in MI’s global franchises, having represented MI New York in the Major League Cricket (MLC), MI Cape Town in the SA20 and MI Emirates in the ILT20. Known for his explosive batting and calm leadership, his return as a wildcard is being considered as a big boost for the team’s title defense campaign.
“Pollard’s experience and presence has been invaluable – he has been a mentor, finisher and match-winner for every MI team he has been a part of.” a team official said after the announcement.
Nicholas Pooran rejoins MI franchise after title-winning season
dynamic left handed batsman nicholas puran Also as a wildcard pick, MI rejoins the Emirates, fresh from captaining the team for the ILT20 2024 Championship. Pooran’s stellar performances in both the ILT20 and MLC have cemented his reputation as one of the best T20 players in the world.
He led MI New York to MLC titles in 2023 and 2025, further strengthening his bond with the Mumbai Indians franchise family. Pooran’s aggressive batting, wicket-keeping skills and leadership experience make him a key figure in the MI setup.
However, his availability remains uncertain for the entire ILT20 season due to a potential scheduling conflict with MI Cape Town in the SA20 League, which runs concurrently with ILT20 2025–26.
Also read: Mumbai Indians – 5 players MI may release before IPL 2026 auction
MI Emirates aim to defend their ILT20 title
Reigning champions MI Emirates have announced a strong squad comprising international stars and emerging talent. With the addition of Pollard and Pooran as wildcards, the franchise appears well-equipped to make another strong title run.
MI Emirates squad for ILT20 2025-26
Signatures at auction:
- Muhammad Rohid (USD 140,000)
- Jordan Thompson (USD 48,000)
- Naveen-ul-Haq (USD 100,000)
- Andre Fletcher (USD 260,000)
- Nostush Kenjige, Mohammad Shafiq, Zain Ul Abedin, Usman Khan, Akeem Auguste, Arab Gul, Tajinder Dhillon, Zahoor Khan (all USD 10,000)
- Shakib Al Hasan (USD 40,000)
Retention:
Fazalhaq Farooqui, Tom Banton, Romario Shepherd, Chris Woakes, Jonny Bairstow, Allah Ghazanfar, Muhammad Wasim, Kamindu Mendis
Wildcard:
Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard
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