Sharjah Warriorz Enhances Squad Ahead of ILT20 Season 5

The Sharjah Warriorz have made significant enhancements to their squad ahead of ILT20 Season 5, securing key players like James Vince, Waqar Salamkheil, and Adam Milne, while welcoming back Sikandar Raza. These strategic signings aim to bolster the team's performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season. With a blend of international experience and proven T20 talent, the Warriorz are poised to make a strong title challenge under the new leadership of Head Coach Adrian Birrell. Read on to discover more about the new additions and their potential impact on the team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 11, 2026, 23:59 IST

Strengthening the Roster

The Sharjah Warriorz have made significant strides in enhancing their team for the upcoming Season 5 of the ILT20 by securing pre-auction signings of James Vince, Waqar Salamkheil, and Adam Milne. Additionally, Sikandar Raza is making a return to the squad, bringing a mix of international expertise and familiarity with the franchise as they prepare under the guidance of new Head Coach Adrian Birrell.

New Additions to the Team

James Vince, an accomplished England batter, joins the Warriorz with a remarkable track record in both international and franchise cricket. He boasts four major Franchise T20 titles, including a victory in the DP World ILT20 as captain of the Desert Vipers in 2023. With over 13,000 runs in T20 cricket, Vince ranks seventh in the all-time list, making him a valuable asset to the Warriorz's batting lineup.

Afghanistan's Waqar Salamkheil also joins the Warriorz for this season, known for his impressive performance in the DP World ILT20. A consistent wicket-taker, Salamkheil has earned the White Belt for Best Bowler twice and was the joint-leading wicket-taker last season with 18 wickets. His experience and skills will significantly enhance the team's bowling strength.

Adam Milne returns to the Sharjah Warriorz after a stint in Season 3, bringing his experience as a dynamic T20 fast bowler. He contributed 11 wickets during the league stage, aiding the team in reaching their first playoff. Milne has previously collaborated with Coach Birrell at Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20.

Sikandar Raza, currently ranked World No. 1 among T20I All-Rounders, is also back with the team. The Zimbabwean was named Player of the Tournament in 2024, playing a crucial role in the Dubai Capitals' championship run. Raza's familiarity with the Warriorz, having scored 171 runs last season, along with his all-round capabilities, adds depth to the squad.

Coaching Insights

Adrian Birrell, the Head Coach of Sharjah Warriorz, expressed his satisfaction with the new signings, stating, "I am really pleased with the players we have brought in. Adam provides pace and familiarity, James has a proven track record in franchise cricket, Waqar consistently takes wickets, and Sikandar offers experience and reliability as an all-rounder. These players can significantly impact our T20 campaign and help us contend for the title."

Kshemal Waingankar, COO of Sharjah Warriorz, added, "We are thrilled to welcome Adam Milne, James Vince, and Waqar Salamkheil to our team, and we are equally excited to see Sikandar Raza return. Our goal with these signings is to create a core group that offers our coach a blend of experience, match-winners, and players who understand the league dynamics. We look forward to building on this foundation in the upcoming auction and finalizing our squad."