Dubai: Insportz, the venue of the ongoing World Indoor Cricket Federation (WICF) World Cup, has earned international acclaim and may soon go on to host more international indoor cricket tournaments.
Speaking to Gulf News, Sarah Harris, the event manager of the Indoor World Cup and development officer of Cricket Australia, said: “It is fantastic for a venue to host a World Cup. A number of people have liked it. It is a good opportunity for people to come down and support the centre and also see the best teams compete in a world stage.”
For Insportz, which is the first centre to introduce indoor cricket in the UAE, it is a proud moment and a reward for its years of dedication since 1997 in promoting indoor sports events. Situated near the Al Quoz industrial area close to Shaikh Zayed Road, it has come a long way. Over 400 players from nine nations are now playing in the 10th edition of the World Cup at Insportz.
Menino Po, the manager of the Insportz Club went on to explain how Insportz was picked to stage the World Cup, “It’s a privilege to host the World Cup. We really worked hard with Prameela Nadkarni and Pradeep Menon (owners) supporting us to get this over here. We got in touch with WICF officials and held talks with WICF President Greg Donnelly and Sarah. They came here for inspection and suggested to revamp the facility. We managed to get it all done.”
Insportz ensured that for World Cup everything should be new. “We laid out new nets, new pitch and everything as per the WICF requirements. We even set up new LED lights.”
Sarah is delighted that the World Cup is being backed by Emirates Cricket Board. “It is a good stepping sign forward to be backed by outdoor cricket associations like Cricket Australia’s support. This can continue to help the growth of indoor cricket. In fact, there is tremendous participation in Australia.”
Insportz is now expecting to host more international tournaments. “We are looking forward to host the WICF Masters Series next year and also the junior series. We are in talks with WICF officials,” said Menino.
“Insportz is the home of indoor cricket in UAE. This is the oldest and the first centre in UAE. Hosting the World Cup will give more boost for this centre,” added Menino, who as manager is hoping for huge participation, like in Australia, which has given a big boost to indoor cricket.
“We host five to six leagues every year. “We usually run our leagues in four divisions. D division are for the amateurs, who want to try out. There is C division for higher level and those who have played here. Then B division is for good talent and then the Premier Level where all the good indoor players play for different good clubs and many from them are representing UAE in the World Cup. Some of our tournaments are sponsored but some are run by us.”
Menino is delighted with sponsorship support. “DBMSC has stood out in supporting many teams and players. In fact, they are the sponsors of UAE taking part in this World Cup. Owners Rupchand, Sumeet, Nilesh Shewakramani and Amit Chaturvedi have been very supportive.”
Sarah feels that indoor cricket has come a long way but needs support. “Indoor cricket has come a long way ahead. Australia is strong but other countries are definitely catching up,” said Sarah.
