Royal Desert Champions Announce Powerhouse Core for Abu Dhabi T10 Season X

Nicholas Pooran leads as Captain and Icon Player, with Phil Salt and Sherfane Rutherford as Platinum Signings.

ABU DHABI, UAE | September 2026

Royal Desert Champions have made their first major on-field statement, naming West Indies star Nicholas Pooran as Captain and Icon Player, with England's Phil Salt and West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford joining as Platinum Signings.

Nicholas Pooran: Captain and Icon Player

One of the most explosive batters in the global T20 game, Pooran can change the course of a match in a handful of deliveries. He will lead the side in its first season, bringing both leadership and firepower.

Phil Salt: Platinum Signing

Salt puts bowling attacks under pressure from the first ball. His attacking intent and ability to score at pace make him a natural fit for T10 cricket.

Sherfane Rutherford: Platinum Signing

A dynamic short-format all-rounder, Rutherford adds power with the bat and the option to contribute with the ball, backed by experience across major franchise competitions.

A Foundation to Build On

Team Director Robin Singh, who brings extensive experience of the Abu Dhabi T10 format, will work alongside Pooran to build the rest of the squad around this international core ahead of the player draft.

Three proven match-winners. One powerful foundation. Royal Desert Champions are ready for Season X.