The Abu Dhabi T10 is set to feature a strong contingent of West Indies internationals, with sixteen players participating in the tournament from November 7 to 20 at Zayed Cricket Stadium. This year’s competition will see each of the six franchises field at least one West Indian player, highlighting the Caribbean’s influence on the fast-paced format.
Leading the charge for the defending champions, UAE Bulls, is Kieron Pollard, who will be joined by other notable players such as Jason Holder for Yas Lions, Nicholas Pooran captaining Royal Desert Champions, and Rovman Powell heading the Emirates Eagles. Additionally, Andre Russell has been signed by Arabian Aces, while United Tigers have drafted fast-bowling all-rounder Odean Smith.
The T10 format, consisting of just 60 balls per innings, demands explosive batting from the outset, making players who can hit sixes from their first delivery particularly valuable. The West Indies have a rich history of producing such talent, and this tournament will showcase their prowess. Pooran, for instance, was the leading run-scorer and Player of the Tournament in 2022, amassing 345 runs and hitting 31 sixes while leading Deccan Gladiators to victory.
In the previous edition, Powell emerged as one of the tournament’s top performers, having launched 137 sixes across seasons, more than any other player. His teammate, Akeal Hosein, also made headlines with a remarkable performance, taking five wickets for just six runs, including a hat-trick, during the 2023 season’s Qualifier 1.
Franchises have not only focused on marquee players but have also built strong supporting squads. The UAE Bulls retained Pollard, Sunil Narine, and Romario Shepherd from last season’s title-winning team and added Andre Fletcher during the draft. Royal Desert Champions have surrounded Pooran with Sherfane Rutherford, Brandon King, and Keemo Paul, while Shimron Hetmyer joins Powell at Emirates Eagles. Arabian Aces and Yas Lions have bolstered their pace attack with Alzarri Joseph and Obed McCoy, respectively.
Pollard is well aware of how quickly fortunes can change in the T10 format. Last season, the UAE Bulls struggled initially, winning only two of their first six matches before rallying to win four consecutive games, including all three playoff matches, to claim the trophy. With such a wealth of hitting talent across the teams, this year’s tournament promises to be highly competitive.
The tournament kicks off on November 7 with a match between UAE Bulls and Yas Lions, pitting Pollard against Holder right from the start. The final is scheduled for November 20, marking the culmination of an exciting series of matches.
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