Nicholas Pooran's 'tactical non-stumping' makes headlines in ILT20 match: Details
What's the story
Desert Vipers registered their fourth consecutive win in the ILT20 Season 4, defeating MI Emirates by just one run in Abu Dhabi. The nail-biting finish came after a dramatic turn of events in the 19th over, where David Payne took three wickets. But it was a strategic move by MI Emirates wicket-keeper Nicholas Pooran that headlined the match. Here are further details.
Controversial decision
Pooran's tactical non-stumping sparks controversy
The incident occurred when MI Emirates had a golden chance to dismiss number-three batter Max Holden, who was batting on 42 off 36 balls. Rashid Khan bowled a delivery outside off-stump, prompting Holden to step out of his crease in search of a big shot, but he missed it completely. Despite having a clear chance for stumping, Pooran deliberately chose not to dislodge the bails.
Game strategy
Vipers's strategic move pays off
After Pooran's controversial decision, the Vipers made another tactical move by retiring Holden out in the very next over and sending Sam Curran to accelerate the innings. The strategy worked as they finished at 159/4 in 20 overs before restricting MI Emirates to 158/9 for a dramatic one-run win. This incident has been dubbed 'tactical non-stumping' and highlights the strategic nature of modern franchise cricket.
Twitter Post
Here is the video!
A RARE INCIDENT IN CRICKET! 🤯
— Sports Tota (@SportsTota) December 10, 2025
Nicholas Pooran chose not to remove Batter when he had the chance to stump him because he was having trouble in the ILT20. pic.twitter.com/ITRTqOYUQt
Post-match reflection
MI Emirates captain reflects on the loss
Reflecting on the loss, MI Emirates captain Kieron Pollard said they didn't finish the innings well. He added that this match showed how momentum can shift in cricket and how one can lose from a winning position. "In our last game, we snuck over the line when we probably shouldn't have won, and this time it turned around on us," he said.