The Dubai Capitals was a formidable team in the second season of ILT20, they hit their stride at the right moment and didn’t take their eye of the ball. Life N Style’s special partnership with the team ensured us a ringside view of their journey…a journey that was filled with explosive, heart-stopping moments like Sikander Raza’s last ball six, Sam Billings’ stellar batting and brilliant catches despite the departure of their most famous name – captain David Warner who was called up his national side. Life N Style had a chat with some of Dubai Capitals stars to get to know more about them as people and as cricketers and some of their answers may surprise you.
David Warner
Warner’s genius lies in his explosive left-handed batting, turning him into a T20 titan. He boasts two World Cup titles (2015, and 2023). His 2021 T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament award cemented his prowess, while his fiery spirit led Australia to the 2021-23 World Test Championship. Warner’s aggression and calculated risk-taking are his trademarks, making him a feared opponent and a true force on the field. But what most miss is his ability to read his crowd, especially during the T20 matches. In India during ILT20 and IPL, his entry, and his ‘filmy’ gestures got the crowd going.
Off the field, Warner prioritises family above all else and you can get a better idea of this side of Warner if you follow him on Instagram.
So Life N Style sat down with Warner to get to know the man behind the cricketer a little better.
You have been a part of two Men’s ODI World Cup titles in 2015 and 2023, can you describe your feeling when you walked out to bat in the finals and how you felt after your team won?
David Warner: When you’re walking out there, it’s quite clearly very special. But I think when you’ve got the crowd all focused on what’s happening in the middle, the attention from the world, it’s very special. It can be nerve-wracking at times. But for me, it’s more about doing my job and trying to do it to the best of my ability.
The feeling when you win is very special and out of this world. 2023 was quite heartbreaking for the Indians but to win in India any time is magical and the World Cup final means a lot.
You’re a T20 titan, an absolute beast in the shorter formats. What’s your secret to consistently smashing sixes and leading teams to victory?
I think consistency. With the 2020 format, the key is being able to adapt to the conditions. Also, watch the ball. You’ll have success if you do that. It’s quite simple, but it’s entertaining. It’s all about entertainment, all about getting people to watch. We’ve got to make sure that we’re doing our job, and that’s entertaining people by hitting fours and sixes and I really enjoy that.
If you could change one thing about your cricketing journey what would it be?
I don’t think I would change anything with my journey. I think it’s been a great one. Started with 2020 cricket played Test cricket and will finish with T20 cricket. Maybe, I don’t know. You could always train harder. I think that’s probably one thing I would change.
Who was your cricketing idol while growing up and do you own any cricketing memorabilia of theirs?
My idols growing up for Shane Warne, Adam Gilchrist and Ricky Ponting, three great Australian cricket players. And I’ve got a couple of their posters at home that were on my wall. But my biggest idol is Michael Schumacher.
Most memorable cricketing and non-cricketing moment
My most memorable cricketing moment quite clearly would be the World Cups plus the World Test championship, those are very significant in the cabinet. It’s very hard to win these tournaments and they’re very close to my heart
Away from away from the ground, my family is my biggest rock. Love them to death and love being a father and a husband.
What is the one career highlight you wish to still achieve?
One career highlight to achieve would have been winning a test series in India. It’s one thing that has eluded Australia for a very long time. It is extremely difficult to do that. That’s one thing I would have loved to have done in my test career.
How would you describe David Warner off the field in three words?
Loving, caring and a father.
Cricket isn’t your only passion. Tell us about your entrepreneurial ventures.
Yeah, I really do love Cricket but away from the field, I’m part owner of a brewery and a vodka distillery. That’s something that I’m passionate about. You know, we Australians love beer, vodka and our cocktails.
So for me, I was passionate about business and I got into it early. It’s something I’m going to enjoy when I step away from the game and delve into the business world.
We hear you are great at golf, tell us a bit about that.
I do enjoy the game especially because it’s a test. The golf ball doesn’t move, unlike a cricket ball. So you’ve only got yourself to blame if you don’t hit that golf ball straight.
You are a globe trotter – which is has been your favourite destination so far and what’s on your travel bucket list?
My favourite destination outside of cricket would be Dubai. I love Dubai. There’s so much to do in Dubai with the girls. Go out to restaurants, to relax and chill, and then my second home is India. It’s a great place to travel. The food is amazing. The people are so welcoming and lovely. And we as a family we enjoy going there.
SAM BILLINGS
He’s known for his explosive batting and infectious enthusiasm, but in the second season of the ILT20, Sam Billings stepped up to a new challenge: leading the Dubai Capitals. Thrust into the captaincy Billings faced the pressure of a title defence and the expectations of a passionate fan base. Here we delve into his non-cricketing and find out more about Mr Billings.
You are known for your cricket-related philanthropy, which cause or charity is closest to your heart?
I did quite a lot of work a few years ago with the Lord’s Taverners in England. We did a lot of work with disabled kids, getting them into cricket and giving unprivileged kids the opportunity to play cricket. It’s had a huge impact on my life. And to see them do so much great work with a lot of children all over the UK, and that’s very close to my heart.
Since I had skin cancer last year, I am also working on raising awareness about the disease around the world.
You took a cracker of a catch in the first match of the Dubai Capitals against MI Emirates, what’s your secret?
I eat pretty well. And yeah, since the age of five, as soon as I could walk, I was just playing sport all day, every day. Even apart from cricket – I play golf, and table tennis and stay very fit. I like going to the gym and it’s just a part of who I am.
What’s a unique skill or hobby you have that not many people know about?
I had a trial as a youngster when I was about thirteen for Tottenham football club. If I’m honest football’s probably my first passion, and I still love playing it in warm-ups. I’ve started to get into table tennis, which is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. I even managed to beat Josh Buttler in the final in a tournament in London.
What’s your favourite football team then?
I’ve been a Manchester United fan since I was a kid. I loved watching them play.
What track or song are you obsessed about these days?
“My music taste is eclectic! I enjoy Dave, a super-talented English rapper. But then I can switch gears and listen to some country music, which is the complete opposite. Right now, I’m digging Morgan Wallen – his stuff is great!”
The craziest thing that’s ever happened to you on the field?
Is it good, crazy or bad crazy? Good crazy – scoring a century against Australia, that’s got to be near the top. It was one of my favourite moments ever. And honestly, getting a fifty on IPL debut? Pretty wild too. All of a sudden, there was a ton of attention, and high-pressure games – it was a whirlwind. Yeah, those two for sure.
How’s the experience been with the Dubai Capitals?
Yeah, love it. I’m very lucky to have played for the GMR Sports family for three years before this. They gave me my IPL debut, and to be a part of this franchise again, it’s amazing. They’re such a professional outfit and the way they go about their business is fantastic. So yeah, really enjoying my time here.
Sikander Raza
Zimbabwe’s talismanic all-rounder is more than just a name – he’s a game-changer. At 37, he’s hitting his peak, carving his name in international cricket with his clean hitting and skilful off-spin. The second season of ILT20 was phenomenal for him where in certain matches he single-handedly changed the course of the match. Showcasing his all-round brilliance, Raza’s journey embodies resilience, as this accidental cricketer paved his way to international glory.
You are an accidental cricketer – you wanted to be a fighter pilot initially, tell us more about your journey.
That is true. I’m an accidental cricketer. I wanted to be a fighter pilot. I failed a medical test after three and a half years of being with the Air Force Lower Topa. When the ground branches, and aeronautical engineering were presented to me as options, I respectfully declined and left because my dream was to be a fighter pilot.
After that, I went to Scotland and did software engineering. Late one night I was playing cricket and a gentleman who is now the current MD of Zimbabwe cricket, saw me practising and gave me an opportunity and that was that.
You are known to be quite stylish, which 3 brands dominate your wardrobe?
So clearly people have been leaking some secrets. So I’m gonna say for my sports and activewear, I’m with Puma. I enjoy wearing them. Apart from that – Giorgio Armani and Hugo Boss.
Which past and current cricketers do you admire and why?
Among past cricketers, I admire Sachin Tendulkar. His achievements are phenomenal, but it is his humility that resonates most deeply. Remarkably, his career has been untarnished by scandal, a testament to his remarkable character.
From the past era, I also hold fond memories of watching Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik.
Presently, Babar Azam, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Mohammad Rizwan are all players I find immensely enjoyable to watch.
What’s one non-cricket hobby you’re passionate about, and how does it influence your life?
One non-cricketing pursuit that I hold dear is volunteering with my family and friends. Together, we care for a remarkable group of 450 orphans – this is just one facet of the six charitable endeavours we undertake. This philanthropic work is a cornerstone of my life.
Paul Van Meekeran
The Dutch cricket team was written off in the 2023 World Cup. But Paul van Meekeren had other plans. His exceptional bowling, including 4 crucial wickets, led the Netherlands to a historic win over Bangladesh. However, his path to glory was not paved with privilege. We spoke to Paul to uncover the challenges he conquered on his journey to success.
Paul, your journey to the Dubai Capitals has been fascinating. We heard you faced some tough challenges during COVID.
During COVID a few years ago, I lost my job and professional cricket contract in the UK. To pay the bills, I drove for Uber Eats for a winter. Thankfully, later that summer, I got back into professional cricket and had some success in World Cups. Now, I’m here with the Dubai Capitals.
How does it feel to perform well in crucial games, like your famous four-wicket haul against Bangladesh in the 2023 Cricket World Cup?
Contributing to wins for any team I play for is always rewarding. We’ve achieved some success with the Dutch team, including victories over big teams. I’m excited to be part of history and hopefully create more.
What’s the funniest prank you’ve ever experienced as a teammate?
Actually, the funniest prank was probably pulled on me! On my first trip with the Dutch team, I left my suitcase at the airport while holding onto some bags for a coach. One teammate wrote a fake letter saying my suitcase was found, leading us on a three-hour round trip to the airport for nothing.
If you could choose between a private jet or a yacht, which would it be and why?
While a private jet sounds nice, I’d probably go for a yacht and take it someplace warm. I love the sunshine!
Roelof van der Merwe
Born in South Africa, he donned the Proteas’ colours in both ODIs and T20Is before switching allegiances to represent the Netherlands, becoming one of the few to play for two international teams. This all-rounder, known for his left-arm spin and middle-order batting, has seen it all, from domestic cricket in South Africa to franchise leagues around the world. He even helped the Netherlands pull off a major upset in the recent World Cup! Let’s get to know him a little better.
You must be thrilled to be part of an underdog team that pulled off a major upset in the recent World Cup! Your contribution, especially in the Netherlands’ win over South Africa, was crucial.
Being the underdog is always fun, right? There’s less pressure and you can exceed expectations. Beating big teams, especially South Africa in Dharamsala was an unforgettable experience.
If cricket wasn’t your career, what do you think you’d be doing?
Carpentry sounds interesting! I enjoy building things, even if my skills aren’t top-notch.
If a Hollywood movie were made about your life, who would you want to play you?
It’s a tough choice, but John Daly seems like an interesting pick considering his unique personality.
Beach picnic or dinner under the stars?
Dinner under the stars in the bush, surrounded by wildlife, sounds like an amazing experience. That definitely beats a beach picnic!
Would you be willing to share a funny or embarrassing moment, on or off the field, that still makes you laugh?
It was a free hit. We got a wicket and I went berserk celebrating and yeah, a few seconds in everybody told me it was a free hit!
Ben Dunk
Ben Dunk, the explosive left-hander, is a force to be reckoned with. From his dream-come-true Australian debut to his consistent performances in the Big Bash, he’s carved a unique path in cricket. Not just a powerful batsman, he boasts a deceptive left-arm spin and even dabbles in wicket-keeping, showcasing his versatility. Whether on the pitch or off, Ben Dunk’s journey continues to be an inspiring one.
What have been your most unforgettable moments on and off the field?
On the field, my debut for Australia stands out. Growing up in a small town, representing my country was a dream. Receiving my cap from Mike Hussey and playing South Africa in Adelaide was magical, especially with family and friends present.
Off the field, my wedding day and the births of my kids are irreplaceable. Family is central to me, and watching them grow fills me with joy.
Looking ahead, reaching 200 professional games motivates me. I recently learned I’m around 175, so 200 would be a nice milestone.
When did you feel like you’d made it as a pro cricketer?
It wasn’t a single moment. Receiving my first paycheck of $980 was exciting, but the turning point was that after playing some good innings, a kid approached me for an autograph, making me realise things were changing rapidly.
What’s your most extravagant purchase?
I’m known for being frugal, but about five years ago, after some success, I treated myself to a nice BMW.
What’s a hidden talent you possess?
Currently, I’m pursuing an MBA and surprisingly achieving high distinctions. Maybe I have a hidden talent for business that’s slowly emerging!
Who are your favourite cricketers, past and present?
Past: Andrew Symonds. He epitomised the country boy who made it big, and I was lucky to play with him at the start of my career. Present: Nicholas Pooran. As a fellow left-handed wicketkeeper, I admire his talent.
