Top order, squad depth key say Katich, Borde

TKR will play the opening match of the CPL against St Lucia Stars in St Lucia from 9 pm tomorrow. TKR left Trinidad yesterday for the opening match, before the team returns to Trinidad for five matches at the Queen’s Park Oval, St Clair between Monday and August 14.

In an interview with Newsday before leaving Trinidad, coach of TKR Simon Katich says his team is looking forward to the tournament.

“It’s obviously an exciting tournament.

Everybody loves T20 cricket here in the Caribbean.

The boys love playing it, so I am sure they are going to enjoy getting out there and putting on a show,” Katich said.

Katich believes TKR’s quality spin attack will be key, but says the team’s top order must perform for TKR to have a successful run in the tournament. “Spin will play a part. I think the top order batting is always crucial, because it is such a big advantage getting to bat in the power play on good wickets here. There is no doubt the top order power that we have got. In our line up we will be looking at our top four hopefully being able to get the job done, to build big scores whether it is chasing or batting first.” Katich is also banking on the team’s experience. “We got a very experienced team, so hopefully that experience will hold us in really good stead.” TKR manager Colin Borde believes squad depth will be pivotal when the team plays five matches in eight days between Monday and August 14.

“When we were choosing the teams we did not know the schedule, but we know that over the last four or five years there is always a period where it is really tight. That is most likely when you have your home games. It is important we have depth in both batting and bowling. We must also ensure the players are fit and mentally ready as well.”