‘We Have the Most Diverse Group’, Says MI Emirates Coach Shane Bond Ahead of Inaugural ILT20

Last Update: January 08, 2023, 20:04 IST

MI Emirates coach Shane Bond (IANS)

MI Emirates coach Shane Bond (IANS)

Talking about the MI Emirates squad, Bond said that the combination of a bunch of talented and quick-witted youngsters coupled with the calmness and stability provided by the senior players will help the team turn into a strong unit on the field.

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond, who will be at the helm of MI Emirates in the inaugural edition of the ILT20 to be held in the UAE, is excited about guiding a bunch of experienced and young players to the title in the inaugural edition.

Bond says the players are hungry for success and are looking forward to the start of the event and are looking forward to taking up their new role, joining the likes of Trent Boult, Kieron Poland and Dwayne Bravo.

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“It is a privilege for me to be with Mumbai (Indians) for eight consecutive seasons. Eagerly waiting for the season. Being head coach is very different, but it’s a role I really enjoy and can’t wait to get started.”

Talking about the MI Emirates squad, Bond stressed that the combination of a bunch of talented and quick-witted youngsters coupled with the calmness and stability provided by the senior players will help the team turn into a strong unit on the field .

“I think it’s a great group of boys. So obviously we’ve got some players who are senior and we’ve got some really young players as well. In terms of T20 teams, we’ve got a range of nationalities in the squad. Case has the most diverse group of players,” the former pacer said.

“All these guys want to be successful. Most of them are very excited to play for the Mumbai franchise because our reputation comes before us. Then you give them some really simple clear game plans. Give them a common objective and they compete There are people they want to win over.” she added.

With his compatriot Trent Boult also donning the MI Emirates jersey, Shane Bond will be keen to rekindle his combination with the left-arm pacer that made New Zealand a formidable bowling unit during their playing days.

“I enjoy working with Trent. He is high energy. He is obviously a great and respected player and it is great to have him in the team,” commented the MI Emirates coach.

With West Indies and Mumbai Indians star Kieron Poland leading the team, Bond is confident that the power-hitting all-rounder will be able to replicate his success in the ILT20 in the IPL.

“Obviously having MI legend Kieron Poland as captain is very exciting and then the youngsters are looking for opportunities to perform. I’ve worked with Polly for a long time. He is a wonderful person to work with and a wonderful captain. We have already talked about our vision for the team and we are very much on the same page.”

Talking about Dwayne Bravo – another West Indies star in the MI Emirates squad – Bond said, “I’ve played a lot of cricket against DJ. He’s still going strong and is still amazing. I really appreciate him.” Looking forward to working with him. He is also transitioning into a coaching role. Such a respected player with his experience can also act as an additional tutor to the younger players.”

“Both Polly and DJ add a West Indian flavor to our team. He really brings that energy to the team and that’s really important for us,” Shane signed off.

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(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)