Desert Vipers head coach James Foster expressed pride and admiration for Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and West Indies middle-order batter Sherfane Rutherford after their inclusion in the ICC ODI Team of the Year. Both players have been integral to the Vipers’ setup since the inaugural season of the ILT20.
“It really does fill me with a huge amount of pride that these two wonderful players, who are a part of our franchise and have been integral over the last two-and-a-half seasons, have been included in the ICC ODI Team of the Year,” Foster said.
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Foster emphasised that beyond their on-field brilliance, Hasaranga and Rutherford are invaluable off the field as well. “It’s not necessarily just what they do on the field; it’s also their presence around the group, their humor, and the knowledge they share,” he added.
On Wanindu Hasaranga
Describing Hasaranga as “the ultimate all-rounder,” Foster lauded his consistency and versatility. “The impressive thing is his consistency year after year. He has such a hunger and desire to put in those performances. Whether it’s batting higher up the order or contributing lower down, ‘Wani’ delivers in every role.”
Foster also highlighted Hasaranga’s fielding as a crucial element of his game. “His fielding is phenomenal – direct hits, incredible catches. These aren’t always recognised in awards, but they lift our side and make a huge impact,” he explained.
On Sherfane Rutherford
Foster praised Rutherford for his performances in challenging middle-order roles. “It is often the toughest time to bat, adapting to situations that aren’t always ideal. Sometimes the team is behind and needs rebuilding, or other times you need to accelerate quickly. He’s been phenomenal for us,” Foster said.
Highlighting Rutherford’s leadership and cricketing intelligence, Foster noted, “What you sometimes don’t realise about ‘Rudds’ is his attention to detail, the amount of cricket he watches, and his leadership around the group. Whenever he speaks, people listen.”
Foster also recalled an iconic performance by Rutherford in a T20 World Cup game against New Zealand. “It wasn’t in the 50-over format, but I was part of the New Zealand coaching staff during that game. On a difficult pitch, the West Indies were in trouble, and ‘Rudds’ played one of the best innings I’ve seen. He was smart yet brutal – an extraordinary performance.”
On the Desert Vipers’ culture
Reflecting on the team’s success in the ongoing season of the ILT20, Foster attributed it to a collective effort. “Our players are not just talented individuals; they are team players who contribute selflessly. It’s not just about the players and coaches but the entire franchise. The management is incredibly thoughtful and detailed. It’s a slick operation,” he said.
Foster’s admiration for Hasaranga and Rutherford and his insights into the team’s culture underscore the Desert Vipers’ commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
