Young Afghan bowler Qais Ahmad anticipates that the conditions in the UAE will be "friendly for spinners" when he joins his Gulf Giants teammates in the International League T20 (ILT20).
Dubai Capitals' match against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders on January 13 marks the start of the tournament's inaugural season.
On January 15, the Gulf Giants will play their season opener at the venerable Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
Ahmad claimed that the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi is one of his favourite locations and that he is familiar with the circumstances in the United Arab Emirates.
He said the following when discussing his playing in the UAE: "I've played a lot of cricket in the UAE, and I believe the conditions and pitches will be favourable. It's excellent for guys like myself that this region of the world permits some spinner assistance."
The 22-year-old has played franchise cricket for Australia, the West Indies, England, and Pakistan, giving him some experience in the field.
"The players on Adani's Gulf Giants' roster are not only in good shape, but they have also just competed in the T20 World Cup and have significant match experience. I'm thrilled to be a part of the team and am hoping to pick up some tips from the more experienced players "said he.
"The ILT20's debut competition won't be simple because there are several seasoned players on the roster. I put a lot of effort into my preparation for this tournament and am hopeful that I can compete with these top players "said the Afghan bowler.
When asked about his past cricket experiences, Ahmad remarked that he always relished competing against Afghanistan legend Rashid Khan.
"When I play with the likes of Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan, it is not only a lot of fun but also a big moment of education for me. Rashid bhai shares all the knowledge of the game, and those sessions are very enjoyable for a youngster like me," Ahmad, who has bagged 4 wickets in 2 games for the national team, said.
Ahamad has also played more than 100 T20 games outside of international matches and bagged close to 150 wickets up until now.
Gulf Giants squad: James Vince (C), ShimronHetmyer, Chris Jordan, Chris Lynn, Tom Banton, Dominic Drakes, David Wiese, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Qais Ahmad, Richard Gleeson, Ollie Pope, Rehan Ahmed, CP Rizwan, Aayan Afzal Khan, Sanchit Sharma, and AshwanthValthappa