The Sharjah Warriorz have added Tim Southee, one of New Zealand’s finest fast bowlers, to their squad for the upcoming DP World ILT20 Season 3. Known for his exceptional skills with the ball and leadership qualities, Southee will also serve as the captain, marking his debut appearance in the ILT20 tournament.
Southee brings a wealth of experience, having participated in four ODI World Cups and six T20 World Cups. The Kiwi pacer is well-regarded for his ability to swing the ball and contribute valuable runs as a lower-order batter. Over the years, Southee has captained New Zealand in multiple formats, showcasing his tactical prowess on the field.
A Career Filled with Highlights
At 36, Southee has played in 10 Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons, representing top franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Royal Challengers Bangalore. He has also showcased his talent in England’s The Hundred and Vitality Blast tournaments.
Renowned for his pace and ability to swing the ball, Southee has expanded his arsenal to include cross-seam deliveries and off-cutters, making him a formidable bowler on the international stage. His accuracy and cleverly disguised variations have been key to his success over the years.
T20I Achievements
Southee made his international debut at just 19 years old, starting with T20Is before moving on to ODIs and Tests. In his first T20I match against England, he claimed his maiden wicket by dismissing Paul Collingwood.
To date, Southee has played 126 T20Is, taking 164 wickets with an economy rate of 8 and a strike rate of 16.7. His best bowling figures in T20Is are an impressive 5/18.
Sharjah Warriorz’s Exciting Prospects
The Sharjah Warriorz are optimistic about the upcoming ILT20 season, which starts on January 11. Their first match is scheduled for January 12 against the Gujarat Giants. Team officials believe Southee’s vast experience and sharp cricketing insights will strengthen their squad significantly.
Tim Southee expressed his enthusiasm about leading the Sharjah Warriorz, saying, “The Sharjah Warriorz have an incredible squad with hard-hitting batters and skilled bowlers. It’s a privilege to lead such a talented group. My discussions with the management have been promising, and I’m confident we’ll have a great season. I’m excited to join and lead this team.”
Kshemal Waingankar, COO of Sharjah Warriorz, shared his excitement about Southee’s addition. “We are thrilled to have Tim Southee as our captain. His commitment to the game and resilience align perfectly with our Warrior spirit. He not only strengthens our team but also brings unmatched experience and leadership. We’re confident he will lead us into a successful new era,” Waingankar said.
With Southee at the helm, the Sharjah Warriorz are geared up for a thrilling ILT20 Season 3!
