The Portuguese cricket team, led by Najam Shahzad, is gearing up for the Dream11 European Cricket Championship 2024 with a squad that balances experienced players with fresh talent. Competing in Group A, alongside Ireland XI, Scotland XI, France, and Guernsey, Portugal aims to make a mark in the highly competitive tournament, scheduled from October 3rd to 5th at the Cartama Oval in Malaga, Spain.

A Strong and Balanced Squad

Portugal’s squad features a well-rounded team with both experienced veterans and up-and-coming talent. Najam Shahzad, the captain, has been a steady leader and a key player in previous tournaments. His leadership, both on and off the field, has been integral to Portugal’s recent form in European cricket. Shahzad’s experience will be critical as Portugal faces strong opponents like Ireland XI and Scotland XI.

Joining Shahzad are dependable players with international experience like Amandeep Singh, Francoise Stoman, Juan Henri, Miguel Machado, Sharn Gomes and Syed Maisam Ali, who bring versatility to the squad. These players add depth to Portugal's lineup, boosting the squads’ strength in its ability to adapt, with players capable of switching between aggressive and defensive styles depending on the match scenario.

Portugal’s lineup is not just about experience but also about youthful energy and promising new players. Portugal will be debuting players Carlos Nunes, Chris de Freitas, Dhavalkumar Norotam, Guy Sheena, Hardeep Singh, Jeremy Martins and Shayadur Rehman bring fresh talent and enthusiasm to the squad. Many of the debut players bring in a wealth of experience as overseas players, playing in very competitive leagues.

Portugal’s Strategy for Group A

Portugal finds itself in a tough group, but the team is no stranger to challenges. Matches against Ireland XI and Scotland XI will be critical, as both teams have a strong cricketing history. However, Portugal’s balanced squad offers the potential to pull off surprises.

Filling out the group are Guernsey and France, which present opportunities for all teams to showcase their skills against each other. These games will likely be high-pressure situations where the Portuguese squad must capitalize on every opportunity. The team’s success will most likely hinge on disciplined bowling and fielding, backed by aggressive yet calculated batting performances – essential factors in the T10 format, which can be extremely unforgiving.

The Road Ahead: Aiming for the Premier Division

The 2024 Dream11 ECC is a critical tournament for Portugal as the team seeks not only to perform well but also to secure a place in the Premier Division in 2025. With the top two teams from Group A advancing to the playoffs, every match is of immense importance. Portugal’s focus will be on consistency – winning the key games to secure promotion and build momentum going forward.

Leadership and Coaching Support

Portugal’s new head coach, Ayzaz Hussain, has been working hard to prepare the team for this prestigious tournament. Under Hussain’s guidance, Portugal has been focusing on improving its game in all aspects. The inclusion of manager Assad Mehmood brings further stability and organizational excellence to the team’s preparations.

Portugal’s squad for the 2024 Dream11 European Cricket Championship reflects a balance of experienced leadership and emerging talent, offering a competitive edge in a tough Group A. Led by Najam Shahzad, the team will look to combine tactical strength and on-field versatility to make a significant impact at the tournament. With matches scheduled from October 3rd to 5th, eyes will be on how Portugal navigates the challenge of facing established cricketing nations, as the team aims to establish itself as an up-and-coming force in European cricketing nations and secure promotion to the Premier Division.

Squad:

Najjam Shahzad (c)
Amandeep Singh
Carlos Nunes
Chris de Freitas
Dhavalkumar Norotam
Françoise Stoman
António Costa
Hardeep Singh
Juan Henri
Jeremy Martins
Miguel Machado
Sharn Gomes
Shayadur Rehman
Syed Maisam Ali

Treinador: Ayzaz Hussain
Diretor: Assad Mehmood