Imran Tahir fit and firing for another big season in the Caribbean Premier League

Fresh from turning a staggering 46 years of age (for a professional cricketer), former legendary South African Test and whiteball spinner Imran Tahir is looking forward to his 8th consecutive season in the Caribbean Premier League, revealed in an interview with Cricinfo’s Deivarayan Muthu the battle he has had to keep fit for the rigours of the professional cricket circuit?

“It's tough, but I'm a bit lucky now because I have more time to do training. That gives me a bit more benefit, and I look after myself well, eat well and try to sleep on time and just be loyal to my job. Then when I get to play, I know I can give my 100% to my team,” revealed Tahir.

Tahir has 1,152 whiteball wickets under his belt, with almost 10% of them coming in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Tahir (107 wickets) is one of only three bowlers to have taken over 100 wickets in the CPL, albeit in just 78 matches, compared to the Dwayne Bravo (129 wickets in 107 matches) and Sunil Narine (123 wickets in 113 matches). 

He has become a legend with his CPL franchise, the Guyana Amazon Warriors, and his popularity was secured when he captained the Warriors to their first CPL title in 2023, in his first gig as captain.

“I've only been given one opportunity in my life as a captain. I just feel like I don't have to prove anything to anyone about my captaincy or skills. I use my experience during captaincy, and I know how to respect my team-mates. I think that's the most important thing in a team environment,” said Tahir, who led the side to the final again in 2024, only to lose to the St Lucia Kings by six wickets.

His success as player and captain has cemented his popularity with the people of Guyana, who he admits “give me a lot of love, and I think that's where you want to be. With that kind of love you always want to come back and play for the same badge, and you just want to be here every year.”

Tahir is excited about his side’s chances in this year’s tournament, but stresses that it’s important to get off to a good start in the competition. 

“The first few games are important and we've been playing a good brand of cricket in the GSL and I believe that will set the standard for us in the CPL. The only thing we can do is work hard and give it back to our fans in Guyana,” added Tahir.