The Inaugural edition of the International League T20 (ILT20) in the UAE is set to start on January 13 in Dubai. Therefore franchises have initiated preparation mode before the six-team tournament begins.
The six-team tournament is expected to feature 34 matches, with each side playing the others twice before four playoff matches. Featuring Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriors.
The ILT20 has in its ranks stars such as Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Trent Boult, Alex Hales, Moeen Ali, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Sikandar Raza.
In a conversation with News18 Media, the 30-year-old talks about the tournament, his team Sharjah Warriors and more.
Part of the Sharjah Warriors for the inaugural season, West Indies Star Opener Evin Lewis is very excited about the new challenge.
“I am really excited. Can’t really wait to meet the team and join the guys. So yeah really excited…” West Indies left-hander said
Sharjah Warriors has Players like Moeen Ali (captain), Dawid Malan, Chris Woakes and Mohammad Nabi.
Therefore Evin Lewis, the left-hander is looking forward to share the dressing room with them.
“To be honest, I am very excited. I have played against these guys in the international circuit but have never shared the same dressing room. I am just looking at meeting them now, and gelling with them in the new franchise.” Lewis added
When News18 asks “Your home ground Sharjah isn’t a big one. Fancying clearing it more often than not?” West Indies Star Opener said,
“(Laughs) Of course, of course. I am going to enjoy my cricket and look at playing my natural game. That I think is the most important thing.”
Still, early days but a lot of interest in the ILT20, especially after IPL teams took a few teams.
“It’s going to evolve. I am going to be straightforward, it’s going to evolve because when you look at for example CPL, people questioned and weren’t sure of it reaching where it did today. Owners from IPL also have teams in CPL now. Once these guys get involved, cricket is definitely going to evolve.” he added
Also he said having international regulars will help advertise the tournament better.
“Yes, yes definitely. Once you get senior and international cricketers in a tournament, it is going to give the tournament a push. It’s the first time this tournament is being played and hope it can evolve and go all the way.” he concluded