UAE team train at historic Gabba ground

Perth: The UAE cricket team had an intense training session at the historic Gabba Ground in Brisbane on Monday. Rain had prevented their outdoor training on Sunday as the grounds were wet.

Speaking to Gulf News over phone, Mazhar Khan — the manager of the UAE team and Administrator of Emirates Cricket Board — said: “It was nice to train at the Gabba today. Due to rains, we trained at the Allan Border Field indoor ground on Sunday and the boys are now raring to go against Ireland on Wednesday.”

The wicket at the Gabba, known for its pace and bounce, is not new to the UAE boys as they had trained in the same type of wicket which had been created at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai. “Though it rained yesterday here, it was hot today and the boys had to really sweat it out,” added Khan.

Their opponents, Ireland have also arrived after their spectacular victory against West Indies. “Ireland also was training and we are expecting to produce good cricket. All the boys are fit and nobody is nursing any niggles,” said Khan.

UAE players flew in from Nelson in New Zealand where they gave Zimbabwe a decent fight. “We are carrying the confidence into this game. The boys have adjusted to the time difference from New Zealand and are in high spirits, they are really enjoying the moment,” said Khan.

Before training, the UAE team posed for a photograph at the Gabba and for the players, it was a dream to be at this venue. “Our boys enthusiastically trained so long that we are returning to the hotel only now [at 9pm],” said Khan.

Many UAE supporters, meanwhile, are expected to fly in to watch UAE’s third match on Saturday — when they take on a buoyant India in Perth.