Tabraiz Shamsi believes global T20 leagues will help future Proteas
By
Chad Klate
14th December 2023
Proteas spinner Tabraiz Shamsi believes the key to a strong national team lies in mass participation in global T20 leagues such as the Indian Premier League, SA20, and others.
'Shamo', who put on a bowling masterclass in the Proteas' five-wicket Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method victory over India in Gqeberha on Tuesday, believes these are the perfect platforms for up and coming stars to hone their skills in front of big crowds.
Having started out in the Caribbean Premier League in 2015 prior to his own international debut in 2016, the 33-year-old believes the experience gained is priceless for youngsters hoping to make the step up to the big stages.
"From my own personal experiences as well, I think playing in different leagues has certainly helped my experiences as a bowler and as a player. Just reading the game, and learning about the game as well," Shamsi said.
"When the league’s first started they were always seen in a bad light in a sense that you know it's just all about players wanting to earn money and stuff but I can only speak from my own experiences as a youngster going into the Caribean Premier League, even playing there before I made my debut for the Proteas in the West Indies.
"It just helped me feel so relaxed because I had been in those stadiums, I had done well in those pitches. So, when I eventually did play for South Africa. I sort of felt at home. That's been the trend when you play in different leagues, SA20 as well."
While the domestic circuit is where most South Africans find pathways to the Proteas setup, Shamsi feels the introduction of the SA20 earlier this year has taken things up a few notches.
"I think the SA20 is brilliant for our country, giving the exposure to players that are just below the international level and guys that are close to playing for the Proteas because you are playing with and against the best South African players as well as the best overseas players."
