Cricket fans will be in for a treat when Superstars T20, UAE’s biggest domestic cricket competition, reaches its climax with the semi-finals today (Thursday) and the final on Friday. 

The second edition of the 16- team franchise competition has lived up to its expectations, with two matches being decided in the Super Over format.

The semi-finals today (Thursday) will be played from 16:30, while the final on Friday will begin at 17:00. The games, at Fairgrounds Oval, Dubai Men’s College in Dubai Academic City, are free to watch for spectators, who could also walk away with some fantastic prizes.

Defending champions Wings Ahmedabad Aces, who take on Sharjah Royal Challengers in the first semi-final, have UAE captain Khurram Khan and Zimbabwe’s Charles Coventry in their line up. 

Headlining the bowling department is former West Indies international Ryan Hinds, who played a crucial role in Aces’ three-wicket victory over Seven Seas Rajasthan Royal in the quarter-finals.

Sharjah Royal Challengers have two Pakistan stars in their side, the competition’s leading run-scorer Kamran Akmal (172) and aggressive batsman Imran Nazir. Between them, the pair have played 75 T20 internationals.

The second semi-final will be played between Danube Lahore Badshah and Ibsons Sialkot Sharks. The competition has drawn many fans to the venue, despite being played during the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

“We’ve had a great number of people attend the matches so far,” said Superstars T20 manager Rahul Dalwale. “With players from Pakistan and Afghanistan playing here as well as some UAE internationals, people of different ages have come to watch their heroes live in action.

“Even when the IPL was being played in the UAE, we still had many people come to the venue."

With just three matches to go in the competition, Dalwale is encouraging people to come with their families and friends and witness some great cricket action.

“The semi-final and final matches are going to be of the highest standard,” said Dalwale. “There have been plenty of boundaries and wickets so far and fans can expect more of the same on both days.”

And there may be an opportunity to meet your cricket stars in person. 

WHAT: Superstars T20 semi-finals and final
WHEN: Today (Thursday) and Friday. Thursday’s semi-finals from 16:30. Friday’s final to start at 17:00
COST: Free entry.  
Sport360 VERDICT: With UAE national captain Khurram Khan and Pakistan’s Umar Akmal set to feature, it’s an opportunity to see live cricket in the country’s biggest domestic competition.
CONTACT: www.superstarst20.com