For cricketers in the UAE, here’s your chance to test yourself at Al Ain Cricket Club’s (AACC) Ramadan Cup and grab a slice of the Dh5,000 prize money.
To be held from June 8 to 16 at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, the 10-over tournament has already attracted a lot of interest and with registration closing on Saturday, May 27, there’s still time to sign up.
Since opening in 2016, the only way has been up for AACC and although the weather might well be getting warmer, organisers insist that shouldn’t pose a problem in making the competition a success.
“Cricket is a very famous sport that is widely played in the UAE,” said Afzal Pasha, cricket operations manager. “It’s the same in Al Ain but it’s just that the teams do not have enough facilities to play which means they would have to travel to other emirates to play in different venues and competitions.
“For example, we held a tournament, which was played with a tennis ball at the beginning of the month and we were amazed to have 15 teams from Al Ain and one from Dubai competing, so it shows that there’s interest. That’s why we are really excited about our Ramadan Cup.
“We’ve already started receiving registrations and hope we have 16 teams altogether.”
The tournament’s matches will be played on an astro-synthetic pitch.
Matches will be played on an astro-synthetic pitch with a knock-out format. Players must be aged 16 and over with no more than 15 in a squad. Entry costs Dh1,000 per team with the champions winning Dh3,000, while the runners-up go home with Dh2,000.
Pasha is confident the Ramadan Cup will be a big success. “We at Al Ain Cricket Club want to promote and increase the popularity of the sport. We have the best facilities to all the cricket lovers and it’s a chance to experience our lush greens.
“We want to have more tournaments in this form as this is will help us to bring the community together and have fun with the game we love.”
He added: “Although it’s hot, the humidity is less and our club facilities are wonderful so families and friends can relax and enjoy the match as all the games are played under floodlights.”
WHAT: Ramadan Cup
WHERE: Al Ain Cricket Club at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club
WHEN: June 8 to 16
CONTACT: For more information, or to register, phone 03 702 6469 or visit www.aesgc.ae
