Bravo enjoying transition to coach in ILT20

West Indies Dwayne Bravo celebrates taking the wicket of England’s Moeen Ali during the World Twenty20 cricket tournament final in Kolkata, India in 2016.
REUTERS/Adnan Abidi/File

West Indies cricket legend Dwayne Bravo is stepping into the role of head coach for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ongoing DP World International League (IL) T20 season three.

Bravo brings invaluable experience to his new position, having a decorated career behind him. Reflecting on his shift to coaching, Bravo expressed his enthusiasm and familiarity with the franchise.

“It’s been a good experience, Bravo said. “I already have a strong connection, and the transition is smoother. Having achieved success with them in the past adds to my confidence. It is an honor to take on this role, and I’m committed to preparing the team well and giving our best shot at success.”

On Jan. 30, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders lost by four wickets to a resurgent Sharjah Warriorz. Bravo assessed the team’s performance and highlighted the need for greater tactical awareness.

“We are still in contention, but we need to be smarter in crucial moments. It has cost us not just in this game but in previous matches as well. We need to improve this as a group.”

Bravo also emphasized the significance of the DP World ILT20 in nurturing local talent. “Tournaments like these strengthen players and provide invaluable experience. Young cricketers in the United Arab Emirates will benefit from competing at this level, much like players from the West Indies, India, and Australia have developed through domestic leagues.”

Bravo singled Alishan Sharafu and Ibrar Ahmad from the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, saying, “Alishan Sharafu has been having an excellent tournament, following up on his strong season last year. Ibrar Ahmad has immense potential, and if we stay united as a team, I believe we still have a solid chance of making a deep run.”

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders currently occupy the fifth spot on the points table, with six points from eight matches and their play-off hopes still alive.