Khaleej Times reports that CP Rizwan has secured a role as assistant batting coach with the Gulf Giants for the upcoming ILT20 League campaign. The 38-year-old, who hails from Kerala, transitions into this new capacity after retiring from active play. He will collaborate with head coach Simon Helmot and batting specialist Michael Klinger as the franchise prepares for the new season of the UAE-based T20 competition.
Rizwan, who captained the UAE squad during the 2022 T20 World Cup, expressed pride in his continued involvement with the sport. Speaking to Khaleej Times, he described the appointment as a significant milestone, particularly given that he represented an ICC Associate Member rather than a Full Member. The former batsman recalled his time as a player for the Giants, noting that winning the inaugural title in 2023 and guiding the development side to a championship deepened his connection to the franchise. He thanked Adani Sportsline, the team’s owners, for the opportunity.
Simon Helmot, the head coach, emphasized that Rizwan’s familiarity with the squad and his understanding of local cricket dynamics make him a valuable asset. The dressing room features prominent international players including Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Helmot noted that Rizwan’s previous experience with both the senior and development teams aligns well with the club’s ambitions for the season.
The fifth edition of the ILT20 League is set to commence on November 21, concluding with the final on December 20. According to Khaleej Times, the tournament will be hosted across three major venues in the UAE, including Dubai International Stadium and the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The Desert Vipers enter the competition as the reigning champions, having won the most recent title, while MI Emirates and Dubai Capitals claimed the previous two seasons. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Sharjah Warriors remain title-hungry, having yet to lift the trophy in the league’s history.