Dubai, UAE: Petromann Sports Management (PSM), in collaboration with the Sharjah Cricket Council and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), proudly announces the launch of the Elite Corporate Cricket Bash (ECCB), a groundbreaking domestic cricket league designed to bring international-level cricket to the domestic scene in the UAE. With a unique 100-ball format and top-tier organisational support, ECCB aims to elevate the profile of UAE cricket by providing a professional platform for top domestic players in the country to showcase their talent.
The tournament was launched on Sunday in Dubai at the hands of Mazhar Khan, General Manager, Sharjah Cricket, former Australia player and World Cup winning coach Dav Whatmore, along with Andrew Russell, Development Manager, Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). Whatmore, who will also be part of the advisory board, brings with him a wealth of experience having been head coach of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, apart from heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA) of India. Whatmore has also been head coach of various franchise sides in T20 Leagues around the world.
The ECCB has been conceived as a premier cricket tournament that will see the participation of 12 teams owned by corporate houses competing in 36 matches over 10 days at the iconic Sharjah International Stadium, featuring some of the best players from UAE. This innovative league offers a total prize pool of 1.3 million AED, with high stakes for corporate players and an opportunity for emerging talent to shine on the national stage. The tournament is anticipated to reach a viewership of over 300 million across various platforms.
Abdul Latif Khan, Founder of Petromann Sports Management, shared his excitement about the league: “The ECCB represents the future of domestic cricket in the UAE. Our aim is to combine high-quality cricket with a corporate spirit, offering companies and players the chance to engage in a historic event that will not only foster talent but also contribute to the development of UAE’s cricket ecosystem. With the expertise we’ve gained from organising the 10PL, we’re confident that this tournament will set new standards in domestic cricket.”
Mubassher Usmani, General Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), endorsed the initiative, highlighting the ECB’s commitment to the growth of the sport: “The ECCB is a welcome addition to our cricket calendar and aligns with our broader vision of promoting local talent and expanding the player base in the UAE. By creating such opportunities for corporates to engage in cricket, we are fostering a love for the sport while providing a platform for talented individuals to shine.”
As the host venue, Sharjah International Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of cricket fans, having hosted numerous historic matches.
The Founder of Sharjah Cricket, Waleed Bukhatir, speaking on the collaboration, said:
“Sharjah has always been at the forefront of cricketing innovation. With the ECCB, we continue our legacy by hosting a tournament that not only brings corporate teams together but also raises the standard of domestic cricket in the UAE. We’re excited to see how this event transforms the cricketing landscape and supports emerging talent.”
The ECCB promises to be more than just a cricket tournament. It’s a celebration of camaraderie, skill, and competition, bringing international standards of play to a corporate environment. Teams will benefit from extensive branding opportunities, media exposure, and the chance to be part of a dynamic and competitive league.
The tournament will feature day and night matches, live streaming with commentary, and exclusive corporate branding opportunities. With high-quality production and management, the ECCB is set to redefine how corporate cricket is played and viewed in the region.
