Ben Dwarshuis attributes BBL success to his experience in India

Paceman Ben Dwarshuis attributes his Big Bash League (BBL) success, particularly after his career-best of 5 for 21 that propelled Sydney Sixers into the final, to his T20I experience with Australia in India. The 29-year-old delivered an outstanding performance in the Qualifier match, and his team registered a 39-run victory over Brisbane Heat on January 19 in Carrara.

Dwarshuis, who took part in Australia's two T20Is against India in December, took five wickets and has maintained a consistent wicket-taking form since his return to the BBL. He emphasised that his time in India, a powerhouse of T20 cricket, and his notable performances there, played a crucial role in his success in the BBL.

"In India, I just think how calm the environment is in the Aussie set-up at the moment was really nice. It was easy to slide in and be clear on your roles and execute. Going to India, who are the powerhouses of T20 cricket, and putting in a few good performances there a few weeks out from the BBL let me start the tournament with plenty of confidence. Fortunately, I've been able to keep that form going. One more game, and hopefully it keeps going," Dwarshuis was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

The Sixers will host the final at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on January 24. Notably, they find themselves without a single player named in the team of the tournament. However, rather than viewing this as a drawback, Dwarshuis highlighted that it serves as a testament to the culture fostered by captain Moises Henriques and coach Greg Shipperd.

"We don't have anyone in the team of the tournament, but if there was a second or third team of the tournament most of our squad would be in there. We are a team where everybody stands up when they need to. We don't just rely on one or two players game-in and game-out.

"Everyone has made great contributions throughout the BBL and when you get in pressure moments that's a really important thing to have in your team. It's a great trait and one of the reasons why the Sixers have been so successful the last few years," the 29-year-old further said.