Dubai : As the countdown to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 gathers momentum, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour, powered by DP World, made significant waves in the UAE, visiting some of the country’s most prestigious schools. The Trophy Tour aims to ignite passion for women’s cricket among young students, offering a rare opportunity to get up close to the coveted trophy while interacting with some of the brightest stars of UAE women’s cricket.
On 23 September, the tour commenced at Sharjah Indian School, where students welcomed Chaya Mughal, the ex-captain of the UAE women’s national team. A trailblazer for women’s cricket in the UAE, Mughal captivated the audience with stories from her journey, with messages of perseverance, leadership, and resilience that resonated deeply with the young girls, many of whom were inspired to chase their sporting dreams. Later that day, the Trophy Tour arrived at Ryan International School, Sharjah, with Keziah Miriam, an emerging star of the UAE women’s cricket team, leading the way. Miriam’s rise from local tournaments to international prominence served as a testament to the growing opportunities for female athletes in the UAE.
Day 2 (24 September) saw the tour reach Gems Modern Academy, Dubai, where Theertha Satish, a young wicketkeeper-batter making waves in UAE cricket, took center stage. Satish, celebrated for her dynamic performances in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers, shared invaluable insights into her career and the dedication required to excel at the highest levels. The final stop on Day 2 brought the Trophy to Ryan International School, Dubai, where Lavanya Keny, an all-rounder known for her outstanding contributions with both bat and ball, engaged with students. Keny’s story, combined with the symbolic presence of the trophy, created a powerful moment for the students, who took part in celebrations and activities commemorating the tour’s visit.
This leg of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour has successfully captured the imagination of young students in the UAE, building excitement for the upcoming tournament and offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with their cricketing heroes. The cricketers’ interactions with the students, combined with the excitement of seeing the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy up close, left an indelible impression on the young crowd.
