Abu Dhabi, Feb. 25th, 2008 (WAM)--A much civilised sporting and social occasion unfolded in Abu Dhabi Monday when international cricket legends, Lashings World XI set up their wickets for the inaugural Emirates Palace Cricket Festival.
Organized by the award-winning hotel in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, the Zayed Cricket Stadium and Etihad; the Cricket Festival is yet another pro-active initiative that will promote the thriving capital as an international sporting destination. Emirates Palace General Manager Hans Olbertz revealed that the event will be staged annually, and will be one of the many highlights of the hotel's busy events calendar, adding that "Over and above our world-class entertainment shows, Emirates Palace is delighted to be bringing world-class cricket action to Abu Dhabi as our contribution to establishing the capital as major hub of international sporting events."The first match, which will take place at the Zayed Cricket Stadium at 6:30pm on the 25th, pits Lashings World XI against Abu Dhabi Cricket Club's Chairman's XI. Comprising of UAE representative team members, as well as promising under 19 talents, the chairman's XI side is under the direct management of H. H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, an avid cricket enthusiast and patron of the sport in the UAE. In true Emirates Palace style, the following match against a Sponsors XI on the 26th will enjoy a stunning venue within the sprawling hotel grounds and premium refreshments from the palace kitchens, including the quintessential cucumber sandwiches and other such cricket favourites. Set to also become an important fixture on the Abu Dhabi social calendar, the Cricket Festival holds appeal for both men and women, and offers an opportunity to watch the sporting action, relax in the lush palace gardens, enjoy a day out with friends or even sneak off to the Anantara Spa for a little post match pampering. Abu Dhabi Cricket Club, CEO, Dilawar Mani stated that ADCC is extremely excited to be part of the festival, "There is a large community following of cricket and we greatly appreciate the role of Emirates Palace in bringing the Lashings World XI to Abu Dhabi. The festival is wonderful opportunity for passionate cricket fans to see these famed players pit their skills against the talented UAE sides".Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2008.
