Bangla Tigers: The Bangla Tigers have strategically revamped their squad after a disappointing previous edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League. Their focus primarily centered on fortifying their batting prowess by injecting additional power and enlisting hard-hitting talents for this tournament. With a robust and seasoned batting order, Saim Ayub will spearhead the team, complemented by Haidar Ali, Amartya Kaul, and Rassie van der Dussen. Ayub notably showcased exceptional batting performances in the recent CPL, contributing significantly to his team’s championship victory.
Furthermore, the addition of top-tier all-rounders like Shakib Al Hasan, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Rohan Mustafa bolsters the squad’s depth. Ahmed’s prowess as a hard-hitting batsman is expected to be a standout feature in this tournament. The wicket-keeper batsmen for the Tigers comprise Kusal Mendis, Robin Uthappa, and Azam Khan. Saim Ayub is set to open the batting alongside Azam Khan.
The bowling unit, at least on paper, appears robust. Dominic Drakes will lead the charge, supported by Reece Topley, Matheesha Pathirana, Matiullah Khan, Abdul Ghafar, and Taskin Ahmed. The presence of Carlos Brathwaite and Daniel Sams, who contribute as bowling all-rounders, adds versatility to the team.
Anticipated to pose a formidable challenge to other teams, the Bangla Tigers seem well-prepared to make a significant impact in the tournament.
Deccan Gladiators: The Deccan Gladiators, as defending champions in this edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League, began their campaign with an impressive display in their first match against the New York Strikers, securing a 22-run victory despite losing the toss and being asked to bat first. Their batting lineup showcased a remarkable performance, posting a total of 118 runs in their allotted 10 overs. Tom Kohler-Cadmore emerged as the standout performer and top run-scorer for the team, staying unbeaten with a brilliant 68 runs off just 33 balls, featuring four boundaries and six towering sixes.
However, aside from Kohler-Cadmore’s exceptional innings, the rest of the batting order struggled to make significant contributions. Only two other batsmen managed to reach double figures—Andre Russell with 17 runs and Daniel Lawrence with 10 runs. Key players like Andre Fletcher, Nicholas Pooran, Imad Wasim, and Fabian Allen couldn’t make a substantial impact in this match.
Despite the batting challenges, the Deccan Gladiators excelled in their bowling performance, which ultimately led to their victory. Zahoor Khan led the bowling attack impressively, claiming two crucial wickets for just 12 runs in his two overs. Trent Boult, Luke Wood, and Mohammad Zahid also contributed well, securing one wicket each.
With this win, the Deccan Gladiators have now claimed two victories in the tournament, showcasing commendable form and balancing their strengths in both batting and bowling departments.
