Following the inaugural and exciting Dream 11 Nature Isle T10 tournament, the Barana Aute Warriors emerged champions, with captain Gian Benjamin capturing top scorer of the tournament with a stunning 464 runs.
Upon Interview with Emonews, Benjamin expressed that he felt confident going into the tournament. His participation at the Cool and Smooth t20 tournament 2022 in Antigua helped his preparation for the inaugural t10 tournament Moreover, having been an active cricketer in Barbados for over 4 years, he was certain that his experience and knowledge of the game would pay off. “As the captain of my team I knew we had a good bowling attack and some power hitters in our batting line up and with the experience of Mervin, Dylan and myself I always knew we stood a great chance once we believed in each other and backed ourselves,” he stated.
At the start of the tournament, Benjamin pointed out that he had many personal goals, one of which was to obtain top scorer. “I knew once I got the most runs without a doubt we would turn out on top and I must say I am proud of the guys in the way they played and stuck together as a unit right through the tournament with a true warrior mentality from defending totals as low as 56 and posting the highest total of 154,” he voiced
Furthermore, he highlighted that the main aim, as was that of all the other teams, was to win the championship. “In order to achieve that we tried to enjoy each and every game but at the same time play some fair cricket. At no time did we bow to anyone. Whatever target was set to us we looked to chase it down or whatever target we set we looked to defend it,” he voiced confidently.
However, he pointed out that despite the team’s success they were faced with a few hurdles. In terms of preparation, they had little time to prepare and it grew into a situation where players were putting in the work individually. Despite the lack of preparation, Benjamin commends his team for putting their best foot forward at every game. “Yeah we fell short a few times but at the same time I appreciate the efforts from the boys. We picked the positives from the games and looked forward to the next game. Closer to the tournament we had a few team sessions where I was quite impressed with the way they turned up and their intensity in the training sessions” he articulated.
Notably, he thanked God and his loved ones for guiding and aiding his success. “It is just a great feeling to walk out on the field whether it be to bat or field knowing that my parents, family and friends are there supporting me. It just gives me that extra drive to go out there and give it my best every time to make them proud,” he expressed.
Benjamin sought to offer motivation to upcoming cricketers who are doubting their talent. He advised, “Anything you set yourself to achieve in life once you believe in yourself and your ability, you will accomplish it. However, nothing in life comes easy. You have to work hard, remain disciplined, humble and never disrespect the game of cricket.”
Notwithstanding the end of the tournament, Benjamin is committed to remaining fit so that he is able to grasp whatever opportunity may present itself in future.
