UAE clinches first Gulf T20I title as Kuwait falls short – Dec 2024
UAE clinches its first Gulf T20I title after a two‑run win over Kuwait in Dubai, with Meet Bhavsar named player of the series. The victory marks a milestone for Gulf cricket.
When talking about UAE cricket, the fast‑growing game overseen by the Emirates Cricket Board in the United Arab Emirates. Also known as cricket in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it blends expat talent with local development programs. The sport has gone from desert pitches to world‑class venues in just a few years, and today it hosts international tournaments, regional qualifiers and a thriving domestic league. Fans can catch everything from T20 showdowns in Sharjah to multi‑day matches in Dubai, all while the national side chases a spot in the next ICC World Cup.
The Emirates Cricket Board, the governing body that manages the sport's structure, funding and pathways is the engine that drives growth. It runs youth academies, secures sponsorships and negotiates broadcasting deals that bring matches to screens across Africa and the Middle East. Because of its work, the UAE now fields a competitive side that competes in ICC World Cup qualifiers, the tournament series that decides who earns a place in cricket's biggest event. Success in these qualifiers boosts the country's ranking and attracts more high‑profile fixtures.
Another cornerstone is the Dubai International Stadium, a state‑of‑the‑art venue that hosts both domestic leagues and international matches. Its flood‑lit ovals and modern amenities make it a favorite stop for touring teams and a magnet for fans seeking high‑energy cricket evenings. The stadium’s partnership with local clubs fuels the domestic circuit, giving home‑grown players a platform to showcase their skills and earn selection for the national team.
All these pieces—governing bodies, world‑stage qualifiers, world‑class venues—combine to shape a vibrant cricket ecosystem in the UAE. Below you’ll find a curated mix of match previews, player spotlights, and analysis that reflects the sport’s rapid evolution in the region. Dive in to see how each story connects to the broader growth of UAE cricket.
UAE clinches its first Gulf T20I title after a two‑run win over Kuwait in Dubai, with Meet Bhavsar named player of the series. The victory marks a milestone for Gulf cricket.