Tanish Suri to Keep Wickets for Desert Vipers in ILT20
In a significant development for the upcoming ILT20 season, Desert Vipers' Director of Cricket Tom Moody has announced that UAE wicketkeeper-batter Tanish Suri will take on wicket-keeping duties for the team in the early stages of the tournament. This decision reflects Suri's notable growth over the last 12 months, demonstrating his ability to compete among top players in the league.
The team's strategy involves utilizing Azam Khan as an impact batter, with the flexibility to switch between wicket-keeping and batting as needed. The Desert Vipers are set to face the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in their opening match, featuring key players like Lockie Ferguson, Mohamed Amir, and Nathan Sowter. Moody has also praised the growth of domestic players, particularly Ali Naseer and Tanish Suri, who are breaking into the national setup, highlighting the promising future of cricket in the region.
The praise for Tanish Suri comes alongside commendations for other notable players, including Pakistani cricketers Fakhar Zaman, Azam Khan, and Muhammad Amir, ahead of the new ILT20 season. Tom Moody, former Australian cricketer and Director of Cricket for the Desert Vipers, has been impressed by Zaman's performances in net sessions and believes he fits perfectly with the team. Moody also highlighted Azam Khan's explosive batting abilities and Muhammad Amir's quality as a fast bowler, showcasing the team's diverse talent.
As the Desert Vipers prepare for their first match of the 2025 ILT20 against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders on January 12 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the inclusion of Tanish Suri as the primary wicketkeeper underscores the team's faith in his capabilities. This move is expected to not only bolster the team's performance but also provide valuable experience for Suri, further cementing his position in the league.