Ramadan might well be a month away, but cricketers in the UAE can still play the game and vie for glory during the holy month at Al Ain Cricket Club’s Ramadan T20 Cup.

To run from May 15 to June 13 at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, the competition is already attracting a lot of interest and with registration closing on May 4, there’s still time to sign up.

It will be the second consecutive year Al Ain Cricket Club will be hosting the event and Umar Afzal Pasha, cricket operations manager, believes next month’s will be a big success.

“We have witnessed the tremendous growth of the competitive teams visiting our club and this is the second Ramadan tournament from the inception of Al Ain Cricket Club,” he said.

“During Ramadan, with the match held at night, it attracts many people who come and watch the matches, while some bring their Iftar.

“The teams who are playing bring a lot of supporters and that creates a really vibrant atmosphere for those who are playing the matches as well as the spectators.”

He added: “By hosting the Ramadan T20 Cup, we want to try and maximise individual and group participation regardless of their ability. There will be a lot of health benefits for the community which improves endurance, stamina, physical fitness and also helps with social interaction.”

Matches will be played on an astro-synthetic pitch with a league format. Each side is guaranteed three matches with entry costing Dh3,000 per side. For the champions, besides lifting the trophy, they will also win Dh6,000 while runners-up will get Dh3,000. There are also personal accolades for the Best Bowler, Best Batsman, Man of the Series and Man of the Match.

Players must be 16 and over and Pasha believes there are plenty of positives for teams to sign up.

“The climate in Al Ain is cooler compared to other emirates while Al Ain is known for being a lush green city,” he said.

“Our club has best cricket wickets for games and practice nets, floodlights to play night matches, while there are restaurants for Iftar and Suhoor, masjid as well as a kids play area.”

What: Ramadan T20 Cup, Al Ain Cricket Club
Where: Al Ain Equestrian and Golf Club
When: May 15 to June 13
Contact: For more information or to register, email cricket@aesgc.ae