In the fast-paced world of franchise T20 leagues, cricket is often distilled into its most explosive form, such as the six-a-side format. New Zealand legend Trent Boult, currently plying his trade with MI Cape Town, recently offered a fascinating glimpse into his cricketing mind by naming his “Dream 6-a-side Team” in a video shared by the franchise on Instagram.
Boult’s choices reveal a clear strategy: overwhelming power at the top and relentless, swinging pace with a touch of legendary spin. The line-up is an absolute dream for any short-form cricket enthusiast, featuring an incredible blend of legends from different eras and countries.
The explosive top order ft. Rohit Sharma
The New Zealander opened his batting selections with two of the most destructive and celebrated openers in T20 history, indicating a plan for maximum impact from the very first ball.
Rohit Sharma: Boult’s first pick was his former Mumbai Indians captain, Rohit, whom he called ‘one of my favourite batsmen ever.’ Rohit’s combination of effortless timing, big-match temperament, and ability to score quickly on all surfaces makes him an indispensable choice to anchor the short innings.
Chris Gayle: Partnering the ‘Hitman’ is the ‘Universe Boss’ himself, Gayle. Boult simply described him as “Destructive,” a single word that perfectly encapsulates the Jamaican legend’s game-breaking ability to clear boundaries with ease.
Boult: Rounding out the batting unit is Boult himself, listing his own name as “the third batter.” While known primarily for his bowling, this self-inclusion highlights the competitive spirit and confidence that every great all-rounder possesses, ready to contribute crucial runs in a condensed format.
“Rohit Sharma. He is one of my favourite batsmen ever. Partnered with Chris Gayle. Destructive. Trent Boult would be the third batter,” said Boult in a video shared by MI Cape Town on Instagram.
The bowling trio: Pace, Swing, and a Spin wizard
With the short boundaries typical of 6-a-side cricket, a world-class bowling attack is paramount. Boult’s choices feature an all-time great spinner and two of the most technically sound fast bowlers in the modern game.
Shane Warne: The late, great Australian leg-spinner is the solitary slow-bowling option, reflecting his iconic status as arguably the most influential spinner of all time. In a format designed for batting, having a bowler who could consistently deliver magic and spin the ball both ways is invaluable.
Mohammed Shami: The Indian fast bowler was selected for his technical excellence, with Boult praising his ‘beautiful seam presentation.’ Shami’s ability to move the new ball and deliver pinpoint accuracy makes him a constant threat.
Shaheen Afridi: Boult’s final pick is the young Pakistani left-arm pacer, Shaheen. With Boult himself in the team, this creates a formidable, dynamic left-arm pace duo known for their lethal ability to swing the new ball and take wickets upfront.
“Shane Warne. Mohammed Shami, beautiful seam presentation. Shaheen Shah Afridi,” added Boult.
