All franchises have picked the foreign contingent for the first edition of the UAE T20 League or the International League T20. Since the only remaining component of each team will be the local stars, most franchises can already plan regarding their captaincy picks. Although a few teams have picked a few names keeping in mind their captaincy capabilities, some franchises seem to have followed the strategy of picking the best possible option to lead the squad on the roster. On that note, here, we predict the captain of each franchise in the UAE T20 League.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Jonny Bairstow
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have a few experienced names in their squad. While Andre Russell and Sunil Narine underline the established stars in the unit, Jonny Bairstow is also a part of the list.
Considering a variety of factors such as fitness and experience, Bairstow seems the best option for captaincy. It needs to be noted that even the Englishman does not have a lot of experience in this regard. Charith Asalanka, who is Sri Lanka’s vice-captain for Asia Cup 2022, is also an option.
Gulf Giants – James Vince
The Gulf Giants could have it tough when it comes to the question of the captain of each franchise in the UAE T20 League. Andy Flower and co. have made some fine picks but there is not one name which sticks out as a captaincy contender.
The likes of David Wiese and Shimron Hetmyer have experience in the format but not as a skipper. Hence, the best option seems to be James Vince, who recently led Hampshire to a victory in the Vitality T20 Blast.
Sharjah Warriors – Moeen Ali
Sharjah Warriors have a slew of experienced men in their squad. Hence, captaincy is unlikely to be an issue for the Capri Global Capital owned franchise.
While Moeen Ali will be the preferred option, if he is not available, Mohammad Nabi can step up. The likes of Dawid Malan and Chris Woakes will also help in the leadership group.
Dubai Capitals – Dasun Shanaka
While Rovman Powell seems to be the marquee signing, having not captained a lot before, the West Indian might not be a good captaincy choice. Hence, the Capitals could look at someone like Dasun Shanaka.
Sri Lanka Cricket has done well under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka while the player himself has also flourished. Hence, he is a suitable choice for the task.
Desert Vipers – Sam Billings
Desert Vipers have very few options who can take up the captaincy. The likes of Alex Hales and Wanindu Hasaranga are fine T20 players but lack the captaincy experience.
It is inevitable for Sam Billings to become the captain of the franchise. In the Hundred, he is the skipper of the Oval Invincibles and has done a good job so far. Hence, the wicket-keeper is likely to be the captain of the Vipers.
MI Emirates – Kieron Pollard
When it comes to the captain of each franchise in the UAE T20 League, it will be an easy choice for the MI Emirates. Kieron Pollard is the obvious choice to lead the squad, that is owned by the Mumbai Indians.
If Pollard is unfit or unavailable, there is a good backup option in the form of Nicholas Pooran. The experience of players such as Trent Boult, Imran Tahir and Dwayne Bravo will help the leadership group.
