Abu Dhabi T10: Defending Champions Deccan Gladiators retain five players including Andre Russell

Deccan Gladiators have retained five of their players from season five for season six of the Abu Dhabi T10 League. The competition is scheduled to take place between November 23, 2022, and December 4, 2022. English cricketer Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Zahoor Khan, all-rounder David Wiese, all-rounder Andre Russell, and Odean Smith are guaranteed spots in the team.

In the fifth season's title game against Delhi Bulls, Andre Russell scored a fantastic unbeaten 90 off 32 for Deccan Gladiators. Tom Kohler-Cadmore supported him with an unbeaten 59 off 28 to help him compile the highest partnership and total (159/0) of the season. With a 200 strike rate, Kohler-Cadmore had the best batting. Both are anticipated to continue their hard-hitting partnerships this year as well.

When they knocked 62 off 24 against Delhi Bulls in the team's penultimate match last year, the Odean Smith-David Weise combination came as a firework and propelled the team to the finals. The Jamaican all-rounder, who had 11 wickets in 12 games and a top speed of 140 kph, is a prized wicket-taker for the team. On the other hand, Weise is renowned for his all-rounded effectiveness in ensuring victories.

The team's bowling lineup would be led by local hero Zahoor Khan, who would trouble the opposing batters with his toe-crushers and deceiving slower deliveries. With renewed energy, the Deccan Gladiators will hope to do well this time too. On September 26th, the draft for the sixth season will take place.

We are extremely delighted: Gaurav Grover

Gaurav Grover, the owner of the Deccan Gladiators, in a statement, said: "We are extremely delighted to retain Andre, Kohler-Cadmore, Zahoor, Odean, and Wiese into the squad for another season. They are experienced players and know the team philosophy well. They have been vital contributors in our endeavour for our maiden title. We are confident that this time also we will build a power-packed team to lead our campaign."

"I am thrilled to be back with the Deccan Gladiators family for another exciting season. Our goal would be to continue the momentum and play strategically. Looking forward to playing with a carefully-curated team in one of the shortest and most thrilling formats of the game," said Andre Russell on his retention.