Sikandar Raza in action. (Courtesy: @SRazaB24/X)

The Dubai Capitals will take confidence from their performance in the first two matches of the DP World ILT20 when they take the field against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday.

Speaking ahead of the game, Zimbabwean Sikandar Raza said, “I do my homework on all the players in the squad, especially if I am playing with them for the first time. Jake (Fraser-McGurk) has had a fantastic BBL, Max (Holden) has had a great County season as well. UAE wicketkeeper-batter Vrittya (Aravind) has hit back-to-back centuries against Nepal. So, as a senior, you show your support by approaching these players and giving them confidence, letting them know that you are tracking their progress,” said the star all-rounder.

Raza also shared his thoughts on how the ILT20 will benefit the UAE players, “Having such domestic leagues will help the young players learn better and quicker. The UAE players have a real chance of building a good cricket team. It”s because of leagues like the ILT20 that they are getting to rub shoulders with some of the best cricketers in the world.”

The Zimbabwean all-rounder showered praise on the Dubai Capitals skipper David Warner, and disclosed how the Australian two-time World Cup winner presents himself in the dressing room, “It”s lovely to play in the same team as David Warner. Since he has joined the team, I have been trying to learn as much as I can from him. He has a great understanding of the game, and as a captain, he”s quite calm and very informative.”