Sunrisers EC coach credits clever auction buying for SA20 success

Birrell was speaking after his side claimed their third title in four seasons, beating Pretoria Capitals by 6 wickets at a boisterous Newlands yesterday. 

He says they are the most balanced team of all the six that take part in the tournament, with every department blessed with quality players.

"I think we did very well in the auction and I think we've got a very well balanced team. I think we're probably the, no disrespect to other teams but I think we probably got the most balanced of all teams,” Birell said.

“We bat deep, we've got good spin, we've got good pace and high quality batsman, experienced opening pair. So, I think we're the side that played the least number of players.

“We didn't chop and change which is very hard on the bench but we've got a fantastic bench that could have played and there were really high quality players that were on the bench which gave me as a coach a lot of confidence. I think we've got a really good squad here."

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Birrell also explained what qualities he looks for in a player before they decide to bid for him. 

He believes his work in the UK has also been a large part of what helps him identify good players.

"I like the character but he's also gotta bring a lot of skill and we're looking for a certain type of player and I think over the four seasons I've been able to identify those players, I think I've had an advantage by working in England,” the coach explained.

“I'm seeing a lot of cricket and I'm seeing a lot of cricketers. For example, James Coles played for Southern Brave and I've seen him at Sussex and now I was at Hampshire and I was able to see him for five years or so. 

“He started at 16, he's 21, he's an old player already but it's just an example of me seeing players first hand and I then I sort of say, that guy would fit our team but I also look at the character and so far I think we made some quite good choices."