Lanka T10: Jaffna Titans’ skipper advocates for format to expand globally

With the much-anticipated Lanka T10 Super League 2024 in full swing, Jaffna Titans’ all-rounder David Wiese voiced his belief this week that the T10 format serves as a crucial tool for players wanting to hone their skills.

Wiese said: “In any format, particularly in T10, bowlers face a very slim margin for error. It’s vital to master your skills as any misstep can be costly. T10 absolutely aids players in honing their abilities.”

He went on to say that there is “certainly a space for T10, especially in terms of reaching emerging markets. It represents a fantastic opportunity to expand cricket’s footprint in those regions.

“However, I must say that as the game shortens, it can sometimes lead to one-side affairs, where a single player can swing the tide of the match,” he noted.

He did say that despite the excitement of T10s, he believes there is a distinct value in longer formats.

“They reflect the essence of the game, and I trust players will continue to prioritize formats like T20s, ODIs, and Tests. However, it’s undeniable that T10 is catching on swiftly,” he said.

Wiese also expressed his joy at participating in the tournament and commended fans in Sri Lanka for their enthusiasm.

“It’s incredible to be back in Sri Lanka. The tournament’s successful start is encouraging, and the turnout has been impressive.”

Sri Lanka is the latest country to launch a T10 league, having witnessed the growing popularity of the event around the world.

Earlier this month, the Abu Dhabi T10 League wrapped up its 8th season.

As with other T10 leagues, the fast-paced tournament brought together some of the big names in international cricket.

Lanka T10 is no different, and for its launch event teams snapped up seven Afghan players.

They feature in four teams.

Najibullah Zadran is playing for Colombo Jaguars; and left-arm spinner Hamza Hotak is in Kandy Bolts’ lineup.

Nuwara Eliya Kings snapped up two Afghans, Zubaid Akbari; and right-arm pacer Aftab Alam.

Hambantota Banga Tigers in turn have three players from Afghanistan in their squad.

They are Hazratullah Zazai, who famously hit 162 off 62 balls, the highest in a T20I, in Dehradun in February 2019 against Ireland; Karim Janat, the younger brother of Asghar Afghan; and one of the country’s most celebrated batsmen, Mohammad Shahzad.

Lanka T10 Watch Live

Cricket fans across the country can tune in to Ariana Television from 2pm Friday, December 13, to watch the event live.

The league will wrap up on December 19.