Emirates a match for Bevan

Retirement has done little to diminish Michael Bevan's batting talent, but a testing pitch and a knowledgeable home attack were enough to counter his threat at The Sevens.

Dubai // In 232 one-day internationals for Australia, Michael Bevan was one the deadliest finishers in cricket. Retirement has done little to diminish his batting talent, but a testing pitch and a knowledgeable home attack were enough to counter his threat at The Sevens yesterday afternoon. Bevan, who left the first-class game three years ago, was the kingpin in a Lord's Taverners side rich in star quality. Yet his efforts were not enough to stop the English charity side from falling to another defeat in their two-match series with the part-timers from Fly Emirates.

Arshad Ali, the UAE all-rounder who works in the visa services department of Emirates, struck 50 then took three wickets as the hosts claimed a 39-run win. The travelling side looked to have a chance of making their 157-run victory target when Bevan was at the wicket, but they faded after he went for 43. Victory means the baggage handlers, flight pursers and check-in supervisors who represent Emirates now hold a 13 to four lead in games against their illustrious opponents.

Bevan, 39, who made the trip to Dubai direct from Australia at the invitation of the Taverners' captain, the former England batsman Chris Adams, was impressed by the local amateurs. "It is certainly a challenge and I am happy to play against them," he said. "I always find it interesting to see players from emerging countries and what they can offer world cricket. There is a certain freshness about it and it is good to be involved in games like this. There is talent there, and for them it is about learning the finer points of the game."

The Emirates side will defend the Dhow Trophy when they play the return leg of the series at Windsor Castle in England in June. [e-mail]