As the anticipation mounts ahead of the inaugural Abu Dhabi T20 Tournament, Multiply Titans skipper Albie Morkel has expressed his own excitement about taking part in a new tournament that tests the South African champions’ strengths.

“Even though every player dreams of playing international cricket, it
is not everyone’s destiny. So to be able to compete against domestic teams from other countries is the closest you will get,” Morkel pointed out.

Morkel, a veteran of T20 tournaments around the world, added that the new tournament is an added bonus for a team that has been breeding a winning culture over the past few years.

“From a team of point of view, I think it will create a lot of excitement. We have worked hard over the last few years to create a good, hard-working team culture, and this will add real value and experience for everyone involved.”

The tournament, to be held in Abu Dhabi from 3-6 October, will also see the game of cricket take in an intriguing new destination, and it is one that Morkel says holds its own against any other venue in the world.

“I’ve played in Abu Dhabi before, and really enjoyed it. The city is great, and there are some fantastic golf courses around," Morkel about a pastime that is a favourite of many cricketers.

In terms of the cricket facilities, Morkel gave the Zayed Cricket Stadium a big thumbs-up.

“The facilities can compete with any around the world, it is a perfect neutral venue to have a tournament like this.”

What will be interesting for all teams involved is how the tournament captures the imagination in its first year.

“The most difficult part of a new competition is the first year. I think the most exciting is that we, as players, have the future in our hands, " said Morkel of the opening edition.

“Hopefully we can all play nice, aggressive T20 cricket to make it interesting for the sponsors and people that will watch,” he said cheerfully.

Happily for the Titans, the tournament will lead them into the domestic T20 season, which will give them an added edge as they look to make it four T20 domestic tournament wins on the trot.

“I think it is a great way to prepare for our domestic campaign. It will lead into our domestic T20 competition, so it will be really good
for us. Playing always beats a practice session, and I am sure there will be an opportunity to look at a few of the young guys coming through.”

The Titans have always had a balanced mix of youth and experience, and
their squad will most certainly reflect that commitment to building the next layer of success.