Vriitya Aravind Reflects on Growth with Desert Vipers Ahead of Global Super League

Vriitya Aravind's Journey with Desert Vipers

Dubai [UAE], May 25: UAE wicketkeeper-batter Vriitya Aravind credits his time with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 for significantly enhancing his skills as a cricketer.

As a member of the Vipers, who clinched the title in Season 4 of the ILT20, Vriitya showcased his talent in the Emirates' domestic D50 tournament, amassing 299 runs, which ranked him third in the competition.

His impressive performance with the Vipers and in domestic cricket has earned him a spot in the Desert Vipers squad for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, scheduled for late July and early August, featuring five franchise teams from around the world.

In a conversation on the Vipers Voices podcast, he expressed, “Being part of the Vipers has undoubtedly aided my development both on and off the field.”

“On the field, I can see my game evolving positively, and I firmly believe that my experience with the Vipers has been a crucial factor in my current progress. Off the field, I’ve formed lasting friendships and maintained connections with excellent coaches, who have been supportive whenever I sought their advice. This experience has been incredibly valuable for me,” he added.

Following the Vipers' success, teammate Khuzaima Bin Tanveer was selected to play for Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League. Vriitya noted that just a few years ago, it would have been hard to envision a UAE player participating in an international league, attributing this change to the opportunities created by the DP World ILT20.

“Khuzaima’s achievement serves as a great inspiration for UAE cricketers to excel and contribute to the national team's success. Performing well in the UAE team and the DP World ILT20 attracts attention from franchise leagues, which ultimately benefits both the individual and UAE cricket as a whole. I recall my debut for the UAE in 2019 when such opportunities were nonexistent. The emergence of leagues like the DP World ILT20 has transformed dreams into reality, as seen with Khuzaima Bin Tanveer and Muhammad Waseem being selected for the PSL,” he remarked.

Looking ahead to the Global Super League in Guyana, Vriitya expressed his eagerness to reunite with his teammates and contribute to the franchise's success.

“I’m genuinely excited. I’ve heard a lot about the Global Super League from my teammates who participated last year, and they had nothing but positive things to say. Winning the DP World ILT20 has opened the door for us to compete in the GSL, which feels like a dream come true,” he stated.

With cricket activity in the UAE slowing down due to the summer heat, Vriitya has strategically planned his preparation for the GSL by playing club cricket in the UK.

“I took a brief break and am now in the UK playing for Stourbridge in the Birmingham League to get back into the swing of things and prepare for the GSL. The weather in Dubai makes it challenging to find cricket opportunities right now, so the UK is the ideal place for me to be during the peak cricket season. I’m playing weekly matches and training regularly, aiming to be ready for either the top order or as a finisher, as I did in Season 4,” he explained.

“I’m focused on covering all bases before the GSL, ensuring I’m fully prepared. I want to enter the tournament with confidence, just as I did before the DP World ILT20 final. We’ve experienced success before, and I believe we can replicate that. If we execute our plans effectively, we’ll position ourselves well to win the GSL,” he concluded.

Here is the roster for the Desert Vipers at the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League:

Chris Green (AUS) – Captain

Daryl Mitchell (NZ)

Bevon Jacobs (NZ)

Shadab Khan (PAK)

Vriitya Aravind (UAE)

Khuzaima Bin Tanveer (UAE)

Matiullah Khan (UAE)

Sanjay Pahal (UAE)

Andries Gous (USA)

Kyle Mayers (WI)

Khary Pierre (WI)

Ramon Simmonds (WI)

Zachary Carter (WI).