Image Source: iplt20.com
[Saba Sports News] Under Kieron Pollard’s experienced captaincy, MI Emirates delivered a commendable performance in the debut season of the International League T20 (ILT20), making it to Qualifier 2. With Pollard shifting to lead MI Cape Town in the SA20, skepticism surrounded MI Emirates’ prospects of matching their 2023 achievements.
Contrary to expectations, they outdid themselves this season, topping the league phase with six victories and securing a spot in the finals by winning Qualifier 1 against Gulf Giants with a significant margin.
In an interview before the final, Nicholas Pooran reflected on his journey with the Mumbai Indians franchise, the forthcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies, and other topics. He emphasized the importance of hard work and teamwork, noting the team’s early peak and consistent performance throughout the season, led by a core group of experienced players.
“I believe it is all about hard work and team effort. Through the group stages, we worked really hard as a group. We know we peaked early in the tournament, but we have been really consistent throughout. The performers in our team have been really consistent and it is just so nice to see that the group of experienced players are putting their hands up and leading from the front. That’s key for us.”
Pooran also recounted his early days with Mumbai Indians, acknowledging the significant impact it had on his career and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from cricketing legends.
“It has been amazing with MI. I have been a part of Mumbai Indians when I was a bit younger, and it has set my career for me. It was a great opportunity. When I’ll look back, I’ll be really grateful to be a part of the set, being around superstars and the legends of the game.”
Regarding the T20 World Cup, he mentioned that while teams like India, Australia, and England are favorites, the tournament is open, underscoring the importance of mutual respect among teams.
When asked about the possibility of hitting six sixes in an over, Pooran humorously stated his readiness to achieve that feat against any bowler, highlighting his competitive spirit.
“It has been amazing with MI. I have been a part of Mumbai Indians when I was a bit younger, and it has set my career for me. It was a great opportunity. When I’ll look back, I’ll be really grateful to be a part of the set, being around superstars and the legends of the game. “
Reflecting on his past role as West Indies’ white-ball captain, Pooran viewed it as a learning experience, focusing on his current opportunity to lead and his commitment to performing his best.
“I mean, that (stint as the West Indies’ white-ball skipper) is a thing from the past. You learn from opportunities in the past. I am just happy to be here at the moment. I’ve got the opportunity to lead this time and I’m trying to do my best.”