When it comes to naming the great cricketing nations, the UAE wouldn’t be high on too many pundits’ lists. But it looks like that is starting to change. With yesterday’s remarkable victory against Kenya in the Super Sixes in New Zealand, the UAE have secured at least a top-four place in the competition, which ensures them full One Day International status for four years. And if they beat Namibia today, they will earn a place in next year’s Cricket World Cup.
That’s quite some achievement for such a small nation – and it’s even more laudable when you consider that the team comprises amateurs who have to take time off from their jobs to represent the UAE. For example, skipper Khurram Khan, whose knock of 85 helped secure the 13-run victory and is the competition’s leading run-scorer, is a purser with Emirates Airline.
Of course, the sport is well established in the UAE, because many in the large expatriate community originate from cricket-playing nations, and Pakistan often plays its internationals here. Hopefully, victories such as this will inspire more youngsters from all backgrounds to play the game, leading one day to the establishment of a fully professional team.
