Cape Town, Dec 25 (NationPress) MI Cape Town's captain Rashid Khan stated that his team is experiencing reduced pressure as they gear up for the SA20 season, which kicks off on Friday. This comes after their victory in the last edition of the tournament.

The reigning champions are set to return to Newlands on Friday, aiming to commence their title defense against the newly revamped Durban's Super Giants (DSG). The squad features not only Rashid but also South African stars like Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch, alongside Trent Boult and fresh addition Nicholas Pooran.

“There was more pressure last year than this year. We faced challenges and came in last twice, so to rise from that and secure the trophy was monumental for our team. Our strength lay in our collective performance and accountability during crucial moments,” Rashid remarked in a SA20 release prior to the opening match.

He also anticipates that Pooran will make a significant impact. “He’s going to inject a lot of energy into our game. We recognize how formidable he is as a player. Expect him to hit plenty of sixes. His enthusiasm and flair will surely resonate here,” Rashid added.

For DSG, new captain Aiden Markram, who has clinched the title twice before with Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), brings a wealth of experience and a winning mindset to coach Lance Klusener's team.

DSG boasts a star-studded line-up that includes Jos Buttler, the captain of England's 2022 T20 World Cup-winning squad, New Zealand's Kane Williamson, and former South African white-ball powerhouse Heinrich Klaasen.

Though West Indies all-rounder Sunil Narine is currently unavailable, DSG has bolstered their spin department with South African Test star Simon Harmer, adding to their arsenal that already features Afghanistan's mystery spinner Noor Ahmad.

“There is a commendable balance in our squad, with a solid group of players. We have exceptional all-rounders, complemented by world-class talents like Buttler and Klaasen,” Markram stated. “A lot will depend on us discovering our strengths and identity as a team, which will enhance our chances of playing good cricket and securing victories. This presents a new and thrilling challenge with numerous fresh faces in the competition,” he concluded.