ABU DHABI // Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Culture, Youth and Social Development, has paid tribute to the Indian Premier League for creating a “bigger awareness” of the sport among fans in the country.
“We have been thrilled and excited watching these wonderful matches and we will be still following it when it returns to India,” said Sheikh Nahyan in an interview during the innings break in the match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals last night at the Zayed Cricket stadium.
“The IPL matches have communicated the joy and the enthusiasm of the UAE.
“We have been thrilled with the exciting matches and we will be carefully watching our favourite teams when they continue playing in India.
“I’m confident that our international guests have felt comfortable in our community. The UAE has a sizeable population from every cricket-playing country in the world. They have been able to support their players.
“Almost 17 and a half per cent of the world, which is 10 million Indians, work and live in our country. They have contributed immensely to the development of the UAE.
“And they have retained their affection for cricket. The IPL here has reunited them with their native India, a very good friend of the UAE.
“We are grateful to the support of our leaders. The superb IPL teams have heightened the excitement for cricket in the UAE. Our country is anticipating a good showing from the UAE in the World Cup in 2015 in Australia and New Zealand.”
Sheikh Nahyan, who is also the chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, said the wings of cricket have spread across the UAE and applauded Sunil Gavaskar (IPL chairman), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL franchises.
“They have given us eight international teams of sensational cricketers and enchanted us for 15 days,” he said.
“On our cricket pitches, we have seen vivid evidence of the skilled competitors performing as a global citizen. The rules of the game have guided behaviour. The spirit of the game has elevated behaviour.
“Competitors have shaken hands and left the field educated in their abilities. Players and fans alike have seen a way to a better world.
“I offer special greetings to all of you who have been associated with these matches. I applaud your commitment, perseverance and you love of the game.”
apassela@thenational.ae
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