Lance Klusener: Abu Dhabi T10 is transforming UAE cricket like IPL did for India

South African cricket legend Lance Klusener has likened the impact of the Abu Dhabi T10 on UAE cricket to that of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Indian cricket. With its mandate of having at least two UAE players in the playing XI, the T10 league is nurturing local talent and elevating the standard of cricket in the UAE.

“It’s a wonderful initiative to have two UAE players on the ground at all times. It’s similar to what the IPL has done for Indian cricket. T10 is slightly different but still identifies and promotes talent,” Klusener remarked in a release from Abu Dhabi T10.

UAE cricketers like Zeeshan Naseer, Muhammad Rohid, and Rohaan Mustafa are among those making waves in the ongoing Abu Dhabi T10, showcasing the nation’s rising cricketing power. Over the years, the league has consistently unearthed new talents who have gone on to shine in international cricket.

Klusener, who is the head coach of the Morrisville Samp Army, has guided his team to a remarkable season, winning seven out of six games and finishing in the top two in the round-robin stage. “The season has been wonderful for us. Job done in terms of qualifying and ensuring a spot in the top two. Now, we regroup and prepare for the playoffs,” he stated.

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Known for his dynamic playing style during his cricketing career, Klusener has embraced the fast-paced nature of T10 cricket, now in his third year as a coach in the league. He emphasized that the format aligns with his philosophy of cricket, which focuses on fielding and running between the wickets over hitting boundaries.

“The basics of cricket still apply in T10—fielding, ones, and twos. In 90 percent of games, the result comes down to the last overs. We focus on taking every single and double possible. Boundaries are not a primary focus in our team talks,” Klusener explained.

The former Proteas all-rounder also highlighted the importance of fielding in the shortest format, saying, “We aim to be in the best position for as many catches or fielding opportunities as possible. These basics make a huge difference.”