Alex Hales Expresses Love for Abu Dhabi and T10 Cricket

Alex Hales, the prominent England cricket player, shares his fondness for the warm climate of Abu Dhabi during a media interaction that followed Team Abu Dhabi's premier game of the seventh Abu Dhabi T10 season against the Chennai Braves.

Despite being born under the grey skies of England, Hales confesses an unparalleled affection for the sun-drenched city of Abu Dhabi, where he has spent the last two seasons playing for the franchise.

"I unabashedly confess my love for the sunny weather here. The warmth and sunshine are in stark contrast with England's chilly winters and I certainly don't miss them (chuckles). The pristine beaches are my favourite spots and you'll often find me basking in the sun there. I guess you could call me quite the beach lover," Hales remarks.

The Allure of Abu Dhabi T10

The Abu Dhabi T10, renowned for being cricket's fastest-paced tournament, has engulfed the United Arab Emirates' capital, with fans eagerly flocking to witness the thrilling, action-filled matches.

Although Team Abu Dhabi has participated in three games so far without a victory, Hales remains optimistic and enthusiastic about his continued involvement in the tournament.

"The T10 tournament is exhilarating and this is my fourth season playing in it. The first two seasons were challenging, especially when out of form. A few dot balls can easily induce panic. However, when you're in form, it's an incredibly enjoyable format to play," the England batter shares.

Team Abu Dhabi: A Home Away from Home

Coach Mark Boucher's Team Abu Dhabi, where Hales has been a retained player, has been lauded by the 34-year-old for its positive team culture. A clear admiration for the coach's experience, the team's open play culture, and the warm reception they receive from local fans are among the reasons he enthusiastically continues to play for the franchise.

"The team atmosphere is fantastic. Mark Boucher, our coach, has done an incredible job of uniting us. We strive to foster a culture where each player has the freedom to play in their own style," Hales discloses.

"Additionally, representing the home team in their home city has its own charm. The support we receive from local fans is heartwarming. Playing with Team Abu Dhabi for the second year, I look forward to many more fruitful seasons," he states.

More than Just Cricket

However, Hales' love for Abu Dhabi extends beyond the cricket pitch and the sunny beaches. He has a penchant for the local cuisine and the numerous tourist spots in the city. He humorously confesses that his indulgence in the diverse food options results in a few extra kilos each time he participates in the T10 tournament.

"The food here is simply irresistible. With a multitude of restaurants to choose from, it's a gastronomic paradise. Last year, I visited the Grand Mosque, which was a truly memorable experience. Moreover, the city boasts three main golf courses, which I frequently visit on my days off," Hales reveals.

Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub: The Preferred Destination

Currently, the England Lions, a group of 21 players, are undergoing a training session at the Tolerance Oval at Zayed Nursery Ground. Several other international teams have also chosen the Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub for their training camps. Hales elaborates on why the facility is gaining preference among teams.

"The Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub offers excellent facilities. During our training sessions, we noticed the impressive tennis courts among other amenities. The Hub provides a comprehensive range of facilities, making it an ideal place to nurture a generation of athletes across various sports, particularly cricket. It's simply a fantastic place to come and play," he concludes.