The Indian Premier League (IPL) undeniably got a lot right over the past two weeks of matches played in the UAE.
Capacity crowds at all venues with fans, old and new to the game, getting into the spirit of things.
But if you were looking to get a replica shirt or some official merchandise to commemorate your IPL experience, then, sadly, it was a case of tough luck as there was nothing available.
Free flags were the order of the day for spectators, which made for great visuals on television, but hardly a keepsake destined to last the test of time as a memento of watching the IPL live.
There were reports, at least in Abu Dhabi, of some polo shirts being available post-match, but what was missing was the big stall offering shirts with the names of the players on the back, who they have just watched committing great deeds at the crease.
At the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix you cannot avoid the stalls selling team colours at Yas Marina Circuit, which is why you see plenty of Red Bull Racing, McLaren-Mercedes and Ferrari merchandise being worn by people, despite the fact they will not see the cars in action again for 52 weeks.
As things go this is a fairly minor gripe. But a lot of people were introduced to the IPL during the past 14 days and a bond, or association, with one of the sides could have been sealed with the purchase of a shirt, or something in their team’s colours.
It just feels like a missed opportunity by the IPL to establish a lasting presence in the UAE.
gcaygill@thenational.ae
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