Sharjah Warriorz Bolster Squad Ahead of ILT20 Season 5 with Key Signings
Sharjah Warriorz Enhance Their Roster
Sharjah [UAE], August 11: The Sharjah Warriorz have made significant strides in strengthening their lineup for the upcoming Season 5 of the ILT20 by securing pre-auction signings of James Vince, Waqar Salamkheil, and Adam Milne, alongside the return of Sikandar Raza.
These new additions bring a mix of international expertise, established T20 credentials, and familiarity with the franchise, as the Warriorz continue to refine their squad under the guidance of new Head Coach Adrian Birrell.
James Vince, an accomplished batter from England, joins the Warriorz with an impressive track record in both international and franchise cricket. He boasts four major Franchise T20 titles, including the DP World ILT20, where he led the Desert Vipers to victory 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 Sharjah Warriorz batting order.
Afghanistan's Waqar Salamkheil also joins the Warriorz for Season 5, bringing a stellar record in the DP World ILT20. A proven wicket-taker, Salamkheil has twice earned the White Belt for Best Bowler, finishing as the joint-leading wicket-taker with 18 wickets in the previous season.
The left-arm wrist-spinner was part of the MI Emirates team that won the league title in 2024, adding significant depth and experience to the bowling lineup.
Adam Milne makes his return to the Sharjah Warriorz after previously playing for the franchise in Season 3. Known for his impactful fast bowling in T20 formats, Milne took 11 wickets during the league stage, helping the team reach the playoffs for the first time. He has also collaborated with Birrell during their tenure at Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20.
Additionally, Sikandar Raza, currently ranked World No. 1 among T20I All-Rounders, is back with the team. The Zimbabwean was named Player of the Tournament in the 2024 edition, 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 extensive experience in global T20 leagues, enhances the team's all-round capabilities.
Adrian Birrell, the Head Coach of Sharjah Warriorz, expressed his satisfaction with the new signings, stating, “I’m really pleased with the players we’ve brought in. Adam provides pace and familiarity, James has a proven track record in franchise cricket and ILT20, 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’re equally excited to see Sikandar Raza return. Our goal with these signings is to create a core group that provides our coach with a blend of experience, match-winners, and players who understand the league. We look forward to building on this foundation in the auction and finalizing our squad.”