Strong XI of players who have signed up for the UAE T20 League
The Emirates Cricket Board has announced the first list of players who have signed up for the UAE T20 League or the International League T20. At the moment, it is a race between tournaments to hire cricketers. On that note, in this article, we take a look at a strong XI of players who have signed up for the UAE T20 League.
The Cricket South Africa T20 League and the UAE T20 League could happen around the same time next year. The CSA T20 League had announced some top players who signed up for them. Now, in reply, the UAE league has also got some marquee cricketers on their roster. This league will be an International League, meaning there will be nine overseas players in the XI. Hence, it would require more overseas cricketers.
Openers: Evin Lewis and Alex Hales
Evin Lewis and Alex Hales will be the openers in this strong XI of players who have signed up for the UAE T20 League. Two of the best openers in the format right now, both Evin Lewis and Alex Hales will feature in the UAE League. Both cricketers have issues with their spot in the playing XI of their countries. Hence, this tournament will be important for them, although for Hales, an England return is unlikely.
Middle-Order: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings (WK) and Shimron Hetmyer
Dawid Malan is one of the highest-ranked T20 batters right now. The Englishman will be a crucial part of the squad that he gets picked for. Sam Billings is a quality wicket-keeper and he will also be in good demand. Shimron Hetmyer recently returned to the West Indian T20 XI. He would need to continue his form to remain in contention.
All-Rounders: Moeen Ali, Wanindu Hasaranga and Andre Russell
It will be a strong all-rounder's department for this strong XI of players who have signed up for the UAE T20 League. Moeen has been playing in multiple T20 leagues and will be a new adventure for him. Wanindu Hasaranga had a brilliant IPL 2022 and he would like to stamp his dominance even more in the T20 league circuit. Andre Russell is a top all-rounder and will be one of the attractions in the league.
Bowlers: Sunil Narine, Chris Jordan, and Dushmantha Chameera
Narine has also been signed up and the KKR owners could try and sign him. Chris Jordan will need a lot of game time to ensure that England does not look past him as the death specialist. Chameera has been in good form and will also play in the league.