In the aftermath of MI Emirates’ thrilling clash with Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in a match of the ongoing ILT20 Season 3, Akeal Hosein, who is widely celebrated for his rise to the top of the ICC T20I Bowling Rankings, took a moment from trapping the batters in a spin web to reflect on his remarkable journey.
The West Indies spinner, who debuted in international T20 cricket in 2021, has cemented his position as one of the world’s premier spinners in the short format.
It’s always a good feeling to be at the top of your class in whatever you do, in whatever field, whatever job you take on. So, it’s a great feeling. But for me now, it’s about continuing to put in the work. Because, you know, when you’re at the top, everyone is trying to get that spot. So, for me, it’s to stay disciplined, stay humble, and continue to put in good work.
For the 31-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner from Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, this achievement is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of years of dedication and growth.
However, Hosein, the itinerant cricketer who has played in franchise leagues in Australia (Melbourne Renegades and Sydney Sixers), India (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Pakistan (Quetta Gladiators) and UAE (MI Emirates), is not one to rest on his laurels. His sights are firmly set on maintaining his form and consistency, knowing that being number one comes with its own set of pressures and expectations.
Hosein’s journey to the top, however, is not one he takes full credit for. One of the constants in his rise has been his camaraderie with West Indies teammate and wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran. The duo’s on-field chemistry and mutual trust have played a significant role in their success.
In December 2024, when Hosein posted an emotional note about achieving the number one rank, Pooran humorously commented that he deserved a Christmas present for all the stumpings he had provided. Asked about this lighthearted banter, Hosein couldn’t help but laugh as he elaborated on their unique partnership.
I think wherever myself and Nicholas go, we sort of came up with…I would say, a challenge within a challenge. Why just have Nicholas Pooran wicketkeeping, you know, seeing things from a batsman’s perspective? For me, he’s the best batter in the world—so, number one.
The respect and admiration Hosein holds for Pooran is palpable. He credits the wicketkeeper-batter’s insights for helping him strategize and outwit opposing batters.
It’s always good to pick the brains of the best batter in T20, giving you cues and tips about what the batter may think based on how you strategize your overs. It’s a plus for me.
The duo’s dynamic relationship transcends mere professional collaboration. According to Hosein, their on-field synergy is rooted in a deep understanding of each other’s games. Together, they devise tactics and experiment with different deliveries to keep batters guessing.
We come up with different deliveries that we think might work against different batters. So, I think it’s something that we enjoy. As I said, we look at it as a challenge within a challenge.
The duo’s connection, he added, isn’t just about cricket — it’s about enjoying the process.
We really enjoy working together. It’s not just about getting results but having fun with it too. That makes a big difference.
As Hosein continues his ILT20 campaign, his focus remains on staying grounded and improving his craft. He knows that being the world’s top-ranked T20I bowler is both an honor and a responsibility.
When you’re at the top, everyone is trying to get that spot,” he reiterated. “For me, it’s to stay disciplined, stay humble, and continue to put in good work.
Akeal remains focused on improving his game and staying true to the qualities that got him to the top.
When you come from where I come from, you know nothing comes easy. So, for me, it’s about remembering that and keeping my head down.
Indian Premier League teams might have given Hosein a cold shoulder by not picking him for this season but Hosein’s humility, combined with his trust in teammates like Pooran, has made him stand out — not just as a bowler but as a player with a team-first attitude.
