UAE skipper upbeat ahead of ACC U16 event

Lakra asserts that home advantage bolsters his team’s chances of winning title

UAE will take on Oman in the opening match of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Under-16 Western Region tournament commencing today at Ajman’s Eden Garden. The tournament matches will be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Ajman’s Eden Gardens and Al Dhaid Cricket Village.

Aryan Lakra, who will captain the UAE team in this sixnation tournament, is confident of a good show. Speaking to Gulf News, Lakra who is one of the most consistent performers in domestic junior tournaments, said: “I feel that our chances of winning are pretty high as we have a bunch of very talented players in the squad. All the players are in good form to play the role they are expected to perform in the tournament.”

Coach Qasim Ali has been working hard with the boys to shape the team for the challenge. “I feel the team is wellgelled. Even though everyone is from the different emirates, but due to academy cricket events in the UAE, we all know each other very well,” added Lakra.

The other participating teams, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Maldives, Oman and, Bahrain, have geared up for the event with some of them playing practice matches against some cricket acadamies in the UAE.

UAE have the advantage of knowing the home conditions well. “Being the home side, we do have a advantage. We all know about the grounds, the pitches and the outfield. Our training camp was held for nearly three months. Our coach Qasim Ali, did put in a lot of emphasis on fielding and fitness,” said Lakra.

UAE are in Group B and their second match against Maldives is on Tuesday at Sharjah Stadium.

Zayed Abbas, Emirates Cricket Board Member and spokesperson, said: “Tournaments such as the ACC U16 series provide a strong springboard for our youth to grow and develop in their cricketing careers, as well as provide each union with the opportunity to fine-tune and hone the skill-set of their respective future representatives.”

The final is scheduled for January 12 at the Sharjah Stadium.

Courtesy: ACC UAE U16 skipper Aryan Lakra says his players have gelled well since they compete often in academy tournaments.