The New York Strikers, who made their debut in the ongoing season of Abu Dhabi T10, started their tournament with a defeat on the opening day against the Bangla Tigers. However, they bounced back in style to beat The Chennai Braves in their second game.
Speaking about the format, one of Pakistan’s best bowlers recently, Wahab Riaz, said that the T10 poses plenty of challenges to the bowlers’ skillset.
“T10 is a very batter-friendly format. In 10 overs, one has to take 10 wickets to win the game. But for the bowlers, a format like this gives you a great idea about your abilities and skills. And even though you will concede runs, if as a bowler you can pick up some new skills or fine-tune an aspect of your game, it will only help in the other formats,” Riaz said.
“Those learnings will help later in a variety of pressure situations, and the team and captain can capitalise on that as well,” Riaz added.
Another aspect the ace pacer believes is crucial is keeping fit during a tightly packed schedule. Riaz noted while it is tough, they have been training for it all their lives.
Riaz also explained the combined effort that goes into working as a team and adapting to each other.
“It is tough when you are coming together for around 10 days as a team. Everyone makes the combined effort and with so much franchise cricket happening all around the globe, most of the players have played with each other in different tournaments. That helps in helping the team work together, and what also makes things easier is how the team management helps you settle in,” the 37-year-old stated.
Riaz touched upon the team’s preparations for the T10 matches.
“I think we have to forget the last game, whether you win or lose, that’s done, and we have to concentrate on the next game. Every day is a new day and if you keep thinking about the previous day, you won’t be able to perform in the next game. So I think the best way to work is that you stay calm and look ahead to the next game,” Riaz signed off.
The New York Strikers are one of two new franchises in the eight-team tournament. The Strikers and the Morrisville SAMP Army are USA-based franchises that have joined the Abu Dhabi T10 this year.
