Cricket: T20 is helping new talent emerge all around the world, says Pietersen

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Cricket: T20 is helping new talent emerge all around the world, says Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen at the unveiling of the Quetta Gladiators team jersey.

Sharjah - Youngsters are learning a lot in the company of Kumar Sangakkara, Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard (Karachi Kings), Brendon McCullum, Jason Roy (Lahore Qalandars), Eoin Morgan and Darren Sammy (Peshawar Zalmi), feels the former England star

By Liaqat Ali

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Published: Wed 15 Feb 2017, 9:39 PM

Last updated: Wed 15 Feb 2017, 11:51 PM

Former England star Kevin Pietersen believes Twenty20 has changed the scenario of the game worldwide.
Top stars travel around the world to take part in different leagues and this has triggered the emergence of new players and growth of the game.
While talking to Khaleej Times after a training session at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, Pietersen said: "Twenty20 has been instrumental in the expansion of the game as we observe the new talent emerging all around the world. I am really surprised by the talent Pakistan has got. These youngsters are learning a lot in the company of Kumar Sangakkara, Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard (Karachi Kings), Brendon McCullum, Jason Roy (Lahore Qalandars), Eoin Morgan and Darren Sammy (Peshawar Zalmi).
"We have seen tournaments like the Indian Premier League and the Big Bash producing quality players and same is going to happen with the Pakistan Super League."
KP, a hot property in T20, added: "It is just the start of the tournament and we have shifted to Sharjah. It is known for cricket with wonderful facilities and we expect huge crowds during the week. The wicket looks beautiful and I am looking forward to some entertainment here.
"T20 is all entertainment as I have projects all around the world and whenever I come across youngsters, first thing they want to learn is how to hit a six and how to play a switch-hit." Pietersen praised Sarfraz Ahmed's captaincy and believes the wicketkeeper-batsman can take Pakistan to new heights.
"I am really impressed by the way Srafraz approaches the game. I enjoyed playing under him last year. As a captain he treats everybody equally which earns him respect. "His commitment to the team is unbelievable and one-day captaincy could be a stepping a stone in his career. He has a bright future ahead because he always wants to get involved the game. He failed to score big in the first match but played a fine innings in the second tie against Karachi Kings and in the company of Rilee Roussouw to take the team home."
liaqat@khaleejtimes.com


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