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"VAN" (Sports Desk - 22.11.2024) :: Australian cricketing icon David Warner is gearing up for his second season with the Dubai Capitals in the DP World International League T20. While the team achieved a runner-up finish in the tournament's previous edition, Warner is determined to play a greater role in building on that success in 2025 – Season 3. Reflecting on the tournament’s unique structure, he highlighted its impact on raising the level of competition and providing invaluable opportunities for local talent. As the new season approaches, Warner remains committed to sharing his extensive experience and supporting the growth of UAE cricket.
On his previous season with the Dubai Capitals, that also marked his debut at the DP World ILT20, the opening batter said, “I enjoyed the competition. It was challenging from an opening batter’s perspective and good for the bowlers. I think the way we fought and came back strongly towards the end of the tournament was fantastic."
On the unique squad composition at the DP World ILT20 that mandates each team can feature as many as nine international players besides a minimum of two players from the United Arab Emirates, the hard-hitting southpaw remarked, “It's rare to have the opportunity where such great talent from around the world mixes with local talent. I think it’s a great experience for the local players, but more importantly, it strengthens the competition, which is incredibly fierce. It’s highly competitive, and everyone talks about it—in Australia and other countries as well. They’re all discussing this tournament and always want to be part of it."
Warner also went to appreciate cricketers from the UAE; he lauded Haider Ali’s role in the Dubai Capitals’ campaign last year. “I think Haider Ali stood out for us. He didn’t get the opportunity to play many games, but when he did, he truly seized the moment and showcased his talent. I was thoroughly happy and excited for him. He was a big, integral part of our team."
Warner opined that the Dubai International Stadium – Dubai Capitals’ home ground is amongst his favourite venues in the world he said, "The best thing about the venue is the atmosphere. Once you’re inside and the fans are here supporting the game, it’s loud, it’s electrifying, and there is also the light display and everything that comes with it. The aesthetics are absolutely fantastic."
Recalling his fondest memory in the United Arab Emirates, Warmer could not look past Australia’s successful World Cup campaign in 2021 where they secured the title for the first time. He said, "It was very exciting. We played two very tight games towards the end, the semi-final and the final. Our hearts were in it. Chasing the total in the final we got off to a good start but needed to build partnerships. The atmosphere was incredible, and the crowd was amazing. It’s truly a great part of the world to play cricket."
Warner further lauded the wicket dynamics and ground dimensions, "The best thing I like here is the wicket. It can be challenging at first, but once you get through the initial phase, you can play more freely. The boundary dimensions are something I love, in Australia, we don’t get that. The MCG is so big, but here the grounds are perfect for a batsman. The pockets can be a little big, but I just like playing here. It's always good. If you get through the new ball, you can be there at the end.", he opined.
Addressing the Capitals’ and DP World ILT20 fans, Warner expressed, "I encourage everyone to come out and support the teams—whichever team it may be. The best part is that you get to see exciting talent, both from around the world and locally. It’s a big spectacle, so please go out, purchase some tickets, and enjoy some entertaining cricket."
As a legend of the game with 49 international centuries across all formats, Warner also shed light on the next phase of his career, “This game has given me everything, and it's upon myself to give the game back because it owes me nothing. I owe everything to the people who have supported me, and my main focus is to keep generating cricketers to come up through the ranks, participate in tournaments like this, and continue evolving as a leader, making sure I'm giving my knowledge back to the youngsters."
He further added, "It’s not just a game for the young. You can play at my age as well, but you’ve got to stay fit and keep up with the youngsters."
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