The Hundred Men’s 2026 Match 18: MI London Predicted XI

MI London host the Manchester Super Giants in Match 18 of the 2026 Men’s Hundred at the Oval on Sunday, August 2. The defending champions have had an ordinary outing so far, having won and lost two games apiece of their four player. They will be looking to tighten up on their form as the second half of the season approaches.

Sam Curran’s side were beaten by London Spirit in the derby, falling to defend a total of 164 for 5, which they reached courtesy of Will Jacks’ half-century and late fireworks from Sherfane Rutherford.

Here is MI London’s predicted XI against Manchester Super Giants:

Top order: Will Jacks, James Vince, Nicholas Pooran (wk)

Will Jacks and James Vince form a dominant opening pair as players who have a lot of experience in this format. Jacks has been MI London’s top-scorer this season with 138 runs in four innings, including two half-centuries. Vince has scored 109 runs in four innings with one half-century, as the pair have set the tone for the defending champions. Nicholas Pooran started the season with a stellar unbeaten 58 off just 22 balls, but has seen low scores in the last three games.

Middle order: Sam Curran (c), Ollie Pope, Sherfane Rutherford, Tom Curran

Sam Curran’s absence was heavily felt by MI London against the Spirit, with the captain’s absence leading to a shortage of bowling options and stability in the middle order. Curran started the season with an unbeaten 60 while picking up four wickets in three matches. Sherfane Rutherford has acted as the team’s finisher, with his vital 19-ball 41 taking the side to over 160 against the Spirit. The southpaw has struck at 175.51 this season and will be looking to take the team forward. Ollie Pope adds vital experience to the middle order while being able to negotiate tough spells. Tom Curran adds vital batting depth and has been a frontline bowler in the death overs.

Lower order/bowlers: Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, Olly Stone, Richard Gleeson

Rashid Khan has had a surprisingly underwhelming season, with the Afghan leg-spinner managing just two wickets in four innings, despite bowling at a respectable economy rate of 8.32. Trent Boult has been vital as an experienced option with the new ball and has picked up five wickets in four games. Olly Stone played his first game for MI London against the Spirit and was expensive despite picking up a wicket. Richard Gleeson has been the defending champions’ key strike bowler, having picked up eight wickets in four games, providing a genuine wicket-taking option in the middle and death overs.

Predicted MI London XI for Match 18 of the 2026 Men’s Hundred vs Manchester Super Giants

Will Jacks, James Vince, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Sam Curran (c), Ollie Pope, Sherfane Rutherford, Tom Curran, Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, Olly Stone, Richard Gleeson

FAQs

When and where will the match be played?

The match will be played at the Kennington Oval and will commence on Sunday, August 2 at 6:00 pm local time/10:30 pm IST

What could be a winning score in this match?

The pitch at the Oval has favoured batters and bowlers alike, but has offered value for strokeplay. A score of 165-175 should be a winning score on this wicket.

Which MI London player can make the biggest difference?

Returning skipper Sam Curran would add vital depth to MI London’s bowling department, while also being able to contribute with the bat. He will be a key player to watch in the clash.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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