Published on: Dec 3, 2025 8:00 pm IST | Updated on: Dec 4, 2025 12:19 pm IST
As the action of the International League 2025 continues, it’s time for the clash of the champions. Inaugural champions, Gulf Giants, will be in action against the second-season champions, MI Emirates, in match 3 of this competition. Both teams would be hoping to kick-start their campaign with a win. Both teams have tasted success in the past seasons and know the drill to go deep in the tournament. Expect a thriller of a game between two former champions. In this post, we have come up with free expert tips for the 3rd match of ILT20 2025, GG vs MIE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai.
The Gulf Giants and MI Emirates are two formidable sides. Both teams have had title success in the past, and their current squad boasts quality players. Heading into this game, both teams would be eager to open their account with a win, and the leadership of Kieron Pollard will play a massive role not only in this game but in the entire tournament. MI Emirates should start as the favorites, and therefore, the win probability meter should favor MI Emirates. Let’s continue with the post and find out the best cricket tips for the 3rd match of ILT20 2025, GG vs MIE at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai.
MIE: 56% win chance GG: 44% win chance
The Giants skipper has been in great nick in recent times, having scored 260 runs from the last 10 T20 knocks.
The Sri Lankan opener is one of the most experienced international batters in the side. He has been quite consistent for SL and will look to do the same for the Giants.
The former West Indian skipper is known to hit the long balls with relative ease. He has scored 240 runs in his last 10 T20 outings.
The Englishman is an exciting young talent who loves to bash the bowlers at will. Banton has been in some form of late, having scored 486 runs from the last 10 innings.
Check out our prediction for the GG vs MIE Match 3 of ILT20 2025.
The International League T20 2025/26 is underway, and MI Emirates (MIE) will be eager to begin their campaign on a strong note when they face Gulf Giants (GG) in Match No. 3 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, December 4.
MIE, crowned champions in the 2023/24 edition, have otherwise endured mixed fortunes in the other two seasons despite fielding a star-studded lineup. This year, under the seasoned leadership of Kieron Pollard, the franchise will once again bank on its blend of international firepower and experienced campaigners to set the tone early in the tournament.
The presence of Nicholas Pooran, Jonny Bairstow, and Shakib Al Hasan adds immense depth to both batting and all-round options, making MIE one of the most balanced sides on paper. Their ability to deliver match-winning performances will be crucial against a Gulf Giants outfit that has consistently proven its mettle in the league. A winning start in Dubai could set the foundation for another memorable campaign.
The Gulf Giants enter the International League T20 2025/26 determined to bounce back after a disappointing campaign last season. Champions of the inaugural edition in 2022/23, they followed up with a third-place finish in 2023/24 but slipped to fifth in 2024/25, missing out on the playoffs. This year, the Giants will be eager to rediscover their winning touch and re-establish themselves as one of the league’s most consistent sides.
Led by the experienced James Vince, GG boasts a squad packed with international quality. The presence of Moeen Ali adds all-round depth, while Azmatullah Omarzai brings youthful energy and versatility. In the bowling department, Tabraiz Shamsi will be crucial with his spin, especially in UAE conditions, where slow bowlers often play a decisive role.
A positive opening performance will be vital to build momentum and confidence. With a balanced mix of seasoned stars and emerging talent, Gulf Giants have the tools to mount a serious challenge and aim for another title run. Let’s move ahead and check the cricket tips.
Matches Played: 5 MIE won: 3 GG won: 2 No Result: 0 RECENT form GULF GIANTS: W W L L W RECENT form MI EMIRATES: L W W L L
Gulf Giants and MI Emirates have played against each other 5 times in the past. The second-season winners, MI Emirates, have the upper hand in head-to-head battles with 3 wins to their name; the remaining 2 games were won by the Gulf Giants.
How will the two teams, i.e., MI Emirates and Gulf Giants, fare in the 3rd match of the ILT20 2025? Let’s take a look.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Pathum Nissanka, James Vince (C), Asif Khan, Kyle Mayers, Moeen Ali, Azmatullah Omarzai, Matthew Forde, Nuwan Thushara, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ishtiaq Ahmad
Muhammad Waseem, Jonny Bairstow (WK), Nicholas Pooran, Ackeem Auguste, Kieron Pollard (C), Shakib Al Hasan, Romario Shepherd, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-Ul-Haq, Zain Ul Abidin
Here’s the pitch and weather report for the 3rd match of IPLT20 2025 between MI Emirates and Gulf Giants at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.
Toss Prediction
At the Dubai International Stadium, the toss will play a key role. The captain winning it is likely to bat first, aiming to post a competitive total on a batting-friendly surface. With spinners effective later, as the surface tends to slow down afterwards, runs on the board could prove decisive in this high-profile clash.
The online live streaming of the 3rd match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 will take place live on the Zee 5 App. The live TV coverage for this series will be available across Zee Network channels- (&Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai SD, and Zee Cinemalu)
The sportsbooks are backing MI Emirates. They have a strong squad with some of the veteran T20 players in their core. Giants, on the other hand, have a fairly young contingent and are also behind their opponents in terms of head-to-head record. Taking all this into consideration, the Emirates looks like a strong unit. Therefore, as per our prediction, MI Emirates are expected to win the GG vs MIE 3rd match of ILT20 2025.