News
UAE v West Indies: Talking points on eve of ICC World Cup Qualifier
Published
1 year agoon
The UAE suffered a chastening 3-0 one-day international series whitewash to West Indies on the eve of the ICC World Cup Qualifier where both teams are slotted in different groups.
Ahead of the June 18 start in Zimbabwe, both teams naturally tried to count it as a learning experience, but UAE interim manager Mudassar Nazar took the boys out of the Sharjah Cricket Stadium early without addressing the media.
UAE lose the plot
It did not help that the third game finished two hours earlier than time, due to a collapse of the batting order which needs the most urgent attention. West Indies reached the target of 185 in 35.1 overs but lost six wickets in the process to some fighting performances by the UAE bowlers.
The couple of players who spoke during the prize distribution ceremonies over the course of the three matches could only talk about how they are soaking in the experience, because most of them are finding their way to the top. There was Ali Naseer who hit back-to-back 50s in the first two games – also his international career’s first, a steady bowling performance from Aayan Khan and Karthik Meiyappan as well as two wickets for the debutant in the third ODI, Muhammad Jawadullah.
![](http://headline.ae/wp-content/uploads/DSC03917-scaled.jpg)
Kevin Sinclair does a flip in his signature-style celebration on course to taking four wickets. Emirates Cricket
West Indies fly high
For West Indies, there was more validation to the revival of Brandon King as an opener which materialised by captain Shai Hope dropping down the order. King was adjudged Player of the Series. Kevin Sinclair, 23, took four wickets on Friday.
Along with two run-outs, he was instrumental as UAE lost eight wickets for the addition of 42 runs in less than 14 overs. Then Alick Athanaze, 24, served notice in the ODI format in blazing fashion. His 65 from 45 balls comprised the joint-fastest half-century by a debutant, matching India’s Krunal Pandya 26-ball effort against England.
Visitors show spunk and attitude
The heat made for challenging conditions and gave a stark reminder to the Asian Cricket Council officials, who are deliberating the hybrid model of staging the Asia Cup by Pakistan. The 2023 hosts are trying to accommodate India at a neutral venue at the latter’s insistence and Sri Lanka is winning the battle currently over the regular option of UAE.
“We are professionals and we have to adapt to every condition that we have in front of us,” said Darren Sammy, the West Indies coach. “In fact, we are trying to be where we were (as two-time world champions in the 1970s) and the road is very long. We need to first recognize our position, where we stand and then take one step at a time.
“Seven of the players heading to Zimbabwe were part of this squad. We tried a few things and achieved some things with a lot of positives. Getting to bowl the opposition out in two games given the conditions has given us a lot of confidence,” he said.
Former legendary all-rounder Carl Hooper has joined the team and he, too, exuberate positivity with his trademark swagger and calm confidence. “We are getting there one day at a time. The weather will be cold in Zimbabwe but we are also not playing much cricket. So coming here and challenging ourselves has been good for our preparations. We must adapt and accept the challenges that come our way.”
The UAE bowlers fought hard in the third ODI in defence of the 184-run total, here are the six wickets that the bowlers took last night.#UAEvWI pic.twitter.com/73G2R273tk
— UAE Cricket Official (@EmiratesCricket) June 10, 2023
Still needing direction
Meanwhile, in the local camp, coach Nazar has been left holding the rebuilding team after the departure of Robin Singh in March. The UAE were due to fly on Sunday, but there was no official communication until the time of writing this on late Saturday evening. The UAE squad will be the last to be announced out of the 10 teams in action.
Captain Muhammed Waseem and the recalled Rameez Shahzad had mixed fortunes with the bat, while Aryansh Sharma, Lovepreet Singh, Aayan Khan and Asif Khan failed to make an impression on the scoreboard. It was left to Ali Nasser to hit two back to back half-centuries in the first games to prop up some fighting total for the hosts to have a go at.
Nasser revealed to Headline UAE that he bats at No 8 on the domestic circuit. It was perplexing to see him continue to arrive at No 7 in the third ODI as well. The other senior player Rohan Mustafa also proved to be a hole in the top-five batting order that the UAE needs to still fix going into the Qualifier. Ten teams will whittle down to a Super Six stage before two teams make it to the grand stage. Based on this showing, Nazar’s UAE side has its task cut out if it wants to avoid disappearing without a trace.
Journalist for 25 years with leading publications in India and UAE such as The National, Mumbai Mirror, DNA, Indian Express and former Sports Editor of eIndia.com. Now managing editor of Headline.ae, part of MEMc (https://www.memc.co)
News
Milestone Systems Brings Next-Gen Video Innovations to Dubai at XPerience Days 2024
Published
2 days agoon
September 5, 2024By
SudhashreeMilestone Systems is bringing its global flagship event, Milestone XPerience Days (MXD), back to the Middle East, highlighting the latest advancements in video technology. The event will be held on September 9-10, 2024, at Mina A’Salam Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, featuring innovations aimed at enhancing both physical and cyber security.
With 17 technology partners showcasing seamlessly integrated solutions powered by Milestone prodigies; the event is a curated opportunity for industry peers to connect over trends, innovations, and challenges. Resellers, distributors, architects & engineers (A&Es), and end customers are set to gain valuable insights from industry experts and thought leaders sharing perspectives on the future of video technology.
According to market research company Omdia, the global video management software (VMS) and Video-Surveillance-as-a-Service (VSaaS) market is expected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2028, driven by increasing concerns over public security and the integration of AI and IoT in urban environments. Milestone Systems, a leader in this space, continues to push the boundaries of video technology with a focus on scalability, operational efficiency, and security.
“Our goal is to strengthen our partnerships with our resellers, distributors, and technology partners to provide state of the art video technology to our end users,” said Louise Bou Rached, Sales Director, MENAT, Milestone systems. “This event is about showcasing the wide range of possibilities with video management software, video analytics, and cloud solutions as well as demonstrating how Milestone’s expertise can enhance security and optimize operations.”
With dedicated R&D focussed on innovation, Milestone drives technological advancements to redefine perceptions of how possible with video technology. Its collaboration with industry tech leaders like Intel and Nvidia allows access to the latest AI developments, improving operational efficiency and security. The cloud-hosted Milestone prodigies have also been revamped for greater scalability to optimize allocations. All the products and technology partners will be present at the Milestone XPerience Days underscoring the commitment to leveraging video technology that drives efficiency and productivity across various industries.
Announcements
UAE sends 90 metric tons of urgent relief supplies to Sudan
Published
5 days agoon
September 3, 2024By
SudhashreeOn the directions of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Humanitarian (DXB-H) has facilitated urgent relief supplies to Chad’s capital, Ndjamena, to support over 70,000 Sudanese people, alleviating their suffering and safeguarding lives in the region.
In a swift response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, a Boeing 747 cargo flight departed from Al Maktoum International Airport on Saturday, August 31, at 9:00 am carrying 90 metric tonnes of essential medical supplies, shelter materials, and relief items provided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). These critical resources are expected to support over 70,000 Sudanese people, alleviating their suffering and safeguarding lives in the region.
Announcements
Gaming meets speed: Ferrari launches first-ever esports arena in Abu Dhabi
Published
1 week agoon
September 1, 2024By
SudhashreeFerrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s acclaimed Ferrari-themed park, has once again redefined entertainment by launching the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena. This state-of-the-art venue is set to become the go-to destination for racing enthusiasts, Formula 1 aficionados, and thrill-seekers alike.
The newly unveiled Ferrari World Esports Arena features an impressive lineup of 20 Gran Turismo simulators, thoughtfully designed to cater to a broad audience. Fourteen simulators are dedicated to adult racers, while six are specifically designed for younger guests, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes visitors of all ages.
The arena also includes three specialised F1 simulators, offering participants the exhilarating experience of sitting in the driver’s seat of a Ferrari race car and racing on legendary F1 Grand Prix circuits, including the Yas Marina Circuit. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, the Ferrari World Esports Arena offers access to the Gran Turismo simulators as part of the theme park ticket until the end of the year. The exclusive F1 simulators are available for an additional fee, starting from Dh60 per race.