The Maratha Arabians of the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2021 have hit the jackpot by signing former India all-rounder Yusuf Pathan for the upcoming season of the popular 10-over franchise tournament. The Abu Dhabi T10 2021, the fifth season under the fastest format of cricket, will see an increased number of 90-minute matches in the scheduled 15 days, as opposed to 10 days in previous seasons.
Yusuf Pathan, who ended his India and IPL career earlier this year, represented India in 57 ODIs and 22 T20Is. collected 810 and 236 runs respectively and also has 46 international wickets to his credit. He was also part of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup victory and 2011 ICC World Cup victory.
Yusuf Pathan was also a strong force in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as he was part of the Rajasthan Royals team that won the inaugural IPL tournament in 2008 under the captaincy of Shane Warne. From 2008 to 2019, he played 174 IPL matches and scored 3204 runs at a strike rate of 142.57, with one century and 13 half-centuries to his name.
Pathan played for the Kolkata Knight Riders and won the IPL in 2012 and 2014 with them. After announcing his retirement, he recently took part in the Road Safety World Series alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and Virender Sehwag for India Legends .
Bigger and better Abu Dhabi T10 tournament promised in UAE’s 50th anniversary year
Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman, TSM, The T10 League owner promised to host a bigger and better tournament this year as it is also the 50thTh Anniversary year of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“It is indeed a matter of pride that a journey that began in 2017 with just four teams has now reached a stage where the tournament has become an important part of the global cricket calendar. It is very encouraging to see the best cricketers in the world in this hugely popular format and aspiring cricketers are taking advantage of the platform to compete with the best in the industry. Together with ADC, we promise to deliver the tournament on an even larger scale in the UAE’s 50th anniversary year and provide our fans with a truly befitting and exciting experience.” he said.
Nicholas Pooran-led Northern Warriors defeated Delhi Bulls in the final to lift the trophy for 2020. The upcoming edition starts on November 20.