“The atmosphere is the same as the IPL” : Andre Russell says SA20 at the same level as IPL

Andre Russell has been a key addition to Pretoria Capitals in the SA20 League this season. The West Indian all-rounder recently spoke about the atmosphere and competitive spirit in the league, which he likens it to the Indian Premier League.

Andre Russell is competing in the SA20 for the first time in his career, and is impressed with the fan turnaround in the stands. He also heaped praise on the talent which is coming across in the South African T20 league, and the impact of the West Indian players.

“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. 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. 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,” Russell told SA20.

Speaking on the impact of West Indian players, Russell stated that they are known to bring power and energy to the shortest format of the game. He also heaped praise on the youngsters competing in the league, who have demonstrated true quality when locking horns with the world’s best.

“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 keep this trend 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,” Russell concluded.

Andre Russell’s Pretoria Capitals have already booked a place in the last four, despite being outplayed in their last fixture by Paarl Royals.