T10 LEAGUE KICKS OFF ON NOVEMBER 21, HARDIK PANDYA REGAINS TOP SPOT IN ICC TWENTY20 RANKINGS
The highly anticipated Abu Dhabi T10 League 2024 kicked off on Thursday, November 21, with Team Abu Dhabi facing off against Ajman Jolts in the opener. The eight-season-old competition welcomed two new teams, Ajman Bolts and UP Nawabs, to the fold.
The addition of these teams marked a significant boost to the 10-side format, which is set to feature at least 40 matches throughout the tournament. Fans and cricket enthusiasts are eager to witness the thrilling T10 matches, which promise to be filled with high-stakes action-packed matches that can turn the tide in a matter of seconds.
Apart from the exciting league stage matches, Hardik Pandya regained his position as the world's top all-rounders following an impressive showing by India in their recent T20 series against South Africa. His performance pushed him up to the number one spot in the ICC Tweny20 rankings for all-rounders, showcasing his exceptional skills.
Meanwhile, Jofra Archer made a late cut into the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction shortlist after missing out initially. The English pacer has reportedly been added by franchises following their interventions.
The Pakistan Super League's clash with the Mumbai Indians International Player Prodigies (MIP) pushed them to change their schedule, which led to some confusion among players and teams about availability for the ongoing tournament.
In related news, coach Aaqib Javed emphasized that ODIs will be prioritized while preparing his team for the Champions Trophy. The interim coach of Pakistan also highlighted the importance of bench strength for T20Is during this period.
On another note, Yash Dayal has joined India's squad as a reserve bowler to replace injured Khaleel Ahmed in the Australia Test series. Prasidh Krishna has been identified by former Australian opener Matthew Hayden to play Shami's role on cricket pitches outside sub-continent.
Cricket fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the Big Bash League (BBL) for Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell, who suffered a hamstring strain while playing in his last T20I match.