Zayed Abbas, a seasoned administrator in UAE cricket, found himself moved by an unfolding story within his own family amidst his years of service to the sport. While serving as the chief of the UAE delegation at the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup in Australia, witnessing the UAE’s historic victory and young cricketer Karthik Meiyappan’s remarkable hat-trick filled him with pride. However, the heartwarming news from his family back home added an emotional layer to his experience.
For the first time, Abbas’s family gathered to watch cricket, following every match of the UAE team and delving deeper into the sport. Abbas, a Board Member at the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), recounted this touching moment as a significant milestone in fostering a newfound interest in cricket within his family.
Recently, the UAE’s under-19 team scripted history at the 2023 Under-19 Asia Cup, defeating cricket powerhouses Sri Lanka and Pakistan to secure a place in the final. Abbas celebrated this monumental achievement, attributing it to the ECB’s relentless efforts. He emphasized the exposure these young players received by competing against formidable teams in bilateral series against established cricketing nations, a feat that stands out among associate teams.
Dreaming ambitiously, Abbas envisions an all-Emirati cricket team in the future. Motivated by his family’s newfound interest in cricket and his son Mansoor’s passion for the sport, Abbas aims to nurture Emirati talent. He aspires to witness a significant number of Emiratis in the under-19 cricket squad within a decade, setting a bold yet achievable target for the sport’s development in the country.
Highlighting his son Mansoor’s shift from swimming to cricket, Abbas sees this transition as a beacon for diverse backgrounds embracing the sport. He envisions a future where more young Emiratis, inspired by Mansoor’s enthusiasm, actively engage in cricket, revitalizing grassroots participation.
While acknowledging the challenges in revitalizing Emirati interest in cricket, Abbas believes in strategic programs and initiatives to engage and encourage Emirati youth. He acknowledges the importance of a gradual process, showcasing the sport’s appeal and skillsets to attract interest organically.
Reflecting on the history of Emirati players in the national team and the recent decline in local participation, Abbas recognizes the need for sustained efforts by cricketing authorities. He emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that nurtures interest rather than imposing it, leveraging the sport’s inherent popularity to attract budding talent.
The vision of an all-Emirati cricket team remains an ambitious yet plausible dream for Abbas, driven by a desire to foster a homegrown cricketing legacy while recognizing the challenges and the steps needed to realize this inspiring aspiration.