As we get set to take the field for MI Cape Town’s first match, the mood in the camp is fantastic. The preparations have been excellent. Compared to last year, we have had a longer time with the team this time around, which has been fantastic because it gives time to people like new captain, Polly, new coach, Robin Peterson, all guys who have been involved with the MI setup for many many years to get the team gelling together. The camaraderie within the team has been brilliant. 

We were very inconsistent last year. We started decently, but we lost momentum within the team. The learning from that is to try and maintain consistency. It probably is the most important thing we have learnt. Allowing each player within the team to be develop consistency and an identity of what MI Cape Town looks like for our conditions, and what the best way for us is to be successful in this competition.

Our captain Kieron Pollard, well, not much more can be said about him. He is an absolute legend of the game. We are very grateful that he is here in South Africa. He comes with a wealth of experience, basically an ambassador for his knowledge and the MI way. To have him here will be a huge advantage to our youngsters. Our foreign guys as well can learn from someone who has played for 15-20 years. His impact within the team is already felt, the respect he commands, and we are looking forward to watching him do his thing on the field.

Lasith Malinga, again, is certainly one of the best T20 bowlers ever. My son often jokes with me and says, ‘Daddy, Slinga Malinga is in your team. He has the best yorker and he should play’. It’s such a blessing to have him in the team. He has mastered T20 cricket. Already his impact is felt with his simple and direct communication with the bowlers. He was always difficult to face, and it’s great to be able to work and learn from him. 

My personal coaching methods vary from player to player. Data and confidence are not opposite of each other. Some players derive confidence through data. As a coach, I assess what a player likes and what would bring the best out of them. If you can filter some good information, it can help their game. Some don’t take it that seriously because they rely on feel. But they are both important. 

Also, we start our campaign with back-to-back away games. Actually having away games is really good to start a competition. The team bonds and they stay together in these situations. If you start off well in your away games, it sets up your home games as well. Challenging ourselves on wickets that we aren’t sure about and adjusting on them on the day can hold us in really good stead.