Andre Russell says SA20 is on par with IPL: “The atmosphere is electric”
Pretoria: Pretoria Capitals are peaking at the right time in SA20 Season 2, and the addition of West Indies star Andre Russell has strengthened their middle-order and brought explosive energy to the side. Speaking to SA20 about his debut season in the league, Russell compared the tournament’s energy to the IPL and praised the rising talent in South Africa.
“SA20 is right up there” — Russell compares the league to IPL
“SA20 is right up there, to be honest. It’s my first time here in South Africa and I’m really enjoying it. The atmosphere is the same as the IPL. The fans love it. Whether it’s sun or rain, they’re always out there. And I think that’s the kind of support we, as players, want. They come out and cheer for the team. When you have fans behind you, it motivates you to bowl well and bat well,” said Russell.
“At the end of the day, we’re enjoying ourselves and the atmosphere too. So I’d say this league is definitely right at the top.”
Caribbean impact in T20 leagues around the world
Speaking on what West Indies players bring to T20 leagues like SA20, Russell highlighted their signature flair:
“I think it’s just the way we play. We express ourselves. As everyone says, we bring power and energy to T20 cricket. I’m happy that we have that kind of impact on T20 leagues.”
“But at the same time, it’s important for the youngsters to make sure they carry on this trend and keep it going. There are some great players coming through in South Africa, and the youngsters here are very good. Cricket is evolving, and it’s only going to get better from here.”
Reggae, dancehall, and West Indian culture in the Pretoria Capitals camp
Russell also reflected on the comfort of having fellow West Indians in the team, and the global reach of Caribbean music and culture:
“I enjoy having a few West Indian guys in the changing room wherever I play. Even if it’s just one or two, I’m happy, because at least you have someone you can speak your own language with, you don’t have to talk English all the time.”
“But surprisingly, the guys here play our music too. They’ve got dancehall and reggae on their playlists. So we’re not short of anything. Ngidi, Lizaad, these guys love the culture. Even some of the English players, who you wouldn’t expect, are playing those songs. Reggae and dancehall music have really gone global now, and it feels good when I hear someone else playing our music.”
With Russell’s influence both on and off the field, the Pretoria Capitals are looking like serious contenders as the tournament heads into the business end.
