Kieron Pollard found himself at the centre of attention during the International League T20 (ILT20) final on Sunday, January 4, when MI Emirates locked horns with Desert Vipers at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The high-pressure summit clash not only decided the champion of the 2025–26 ILT20 season but also witnessed a rare flash of temper from the legendary West Indies all-rounder.
The incident unfolded in the 11th over of MI Emirates’ run chase when Pakistani speedster Naseem Shah bowled the final delivery of the over to Pollard. A brief exchange of words followed the ball, with Pollard appearing to say something to Naseem. The young fast bowler responded, and within seconds, the situation escalated into a heated verbal altercation.
On-field umpires were forced to step in swiftly to calm tempers and separate the two players, preventing the moment from spiralling further. Interestingly, the tension did not end there. Pollard was again seen having a word with Naseem while standing at the non-striker’s end shortly after.
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This time, Naseem chose to let his bowling do the talking. The pacer had the last laugh when he dismissed Pollard on the very first ball of the 17th over, with substitute fielder Sanjay Pahal completing the catch. Leading MI Emirates in the final, Pollard walked back after scoring 28 runs off 28 balls, an innings that included two boundaries but lacked the late flourish his team desperately needed.
Sparks fly in the middle! 🧨
The Final brings out many emotions, catching Naseem Shah & Kieron Pollard in the middle of it. ⚔️#Final #DVvMIE #DPWorldILT20 #WhereTheWorldPlays #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/PGUsSl3PaT
— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 4, 2026
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MI Emirates ultimately endured a disappointing night, suffering a 46-run defeat as Desert Vipers clinched their maiden ILT20 title. After opting to bowl first, MI Emirates were put under pressure by a composed and authoritative innings from Vipers skipper Sam Curran. Batting at number four, Curran remained unbeaten on 74 off 51 balls, striking eight fours and two sixes. He shared crucial partnerships, adding 89 runs with Max Holden (41 off 32) and a brisk 57 with Dan Lawrence, who chipped in with 23 off 15, as Desert Vipers posted a competitive 182/4.
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In reply, MI Emirates never truly found momentum and were bowled out for 136 in 18.3 overs. Naseem Shah and David Payne led the bowling charge with three wickets apiece, while Khuzaima Tanveer and Usman Tariq picked up two wickets each. The disciplined bowling performance sealed a memorable victory for Desert Vipers and capped off a dramatic ILT20 final.
