Published 18:44 IST, October 14th 2019
Shahid Afridi says T10 is best format to represent cricket at Olympics
Shahid Afridi, who is all set to debut and captain Abu Dhabi T10 franchise Qalandars, said that the format has the potential to be played at the Olympics
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi is all set to make his debut for new outfit Qalandars in the Abu Dhabi T10 league. Afridi has also been named the captain of the franchise. He last played an international game in May 2018 and is still popular among the T20 circuit. Afridi believes that the T10 format has the potential to represent Cricket in Olympics.
T10 can be played at Olympics
Afridi who played 398 ODIs and 99 T20Is for Pakistan said the league has potential because the matches are fast and they end in 90 minutes. He said that the Abu Dhabi T10 can be a good platform for testing the sport for the Olympics. Afridi stated that cricket should look at ways to evolve and increase its popularity and excitement among the youngsters. Several star players are set to take part in the tournament like Andre Russell, Shane Watson, and Eoin Morgan.
The third edition of the tournament will be held in Abu Dhabi between November 14 to 24. The telecast rights being bought by Sony Pictures Limited resulting in a wider range of audiences. Afridi added that the T10 league will be soon played across the world and drew comparisons with the rise of T20 cricket. Afridi said that with time and more participation, the format can rise to popularity just like T20 did.
The Qalandars are a popular brand in Pakistan. The Qalandars also have a PSL franchise by the name Lahore Qalandars. The first two editions of the T10 were held in Sharjah but the third edition will be held in Abu Dhabi.
Updated 19:58 IST, October 14th 2019