Abu Dhabi set to host second ODI

Preparations are in full swing to host Abu Dhabi’s only one ODI game of three ODIs and three T20 internationals of Bank Al Falah Presents Cool and Cool Cup, Pakistan versus Australia series in the UAE. The ODI takes place at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Aug.31 between the Asian Champions Pakistan and World No. 4 ODI team Australia. Historically Friday matches are hugely popular amongst the sub continent expatriates and Aug.31 Friday’s encounter between Pakistan and Australia will prove no different. The organisers are optimistic that the event will be a big success and there has been some impressive pre-ticket sale interest shown by the fans which guarantees that this battle for supremacy will be witnessed by a near capacity crowd. The ODI series will kick start on Aug.28 in Sharjah before moving into to Abu Dhabi on Aug.31.   The series will then return to Sharjah on Sept.3 for the third and final ODI. Generally the second match of three-match series is always the most important one as it can be a decider or the equaliser. Therefore, regardless of whatever the result of the first match, both teams will put their best to further strengthen the advantage gained or the opportunity lost in the first game. Tickets for the second ODI are out on sale from selected outlets in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, online ticket sales have also kicked in. The organisers have kept the prices on the lower side starting from Dhs30 to Dhs250 to attract more crowds. Specially designed VIP corporate hospitality packages are on sale as well. Both teams have lost the last ODI series they played, Australia were whitewashed by England and Pakistan lost to Sri Lanka. Thus the teams in this series have a lot to prove, Pakistan want to see their bowlers taking wickets as during the last Sri Lanka series it was their biggest drawback. On the other hand Australia want their middle order to score runs. This series provides them with a great opportunity to gain in confidence before they proceed to Sri Lanka for the ICC T20 World Cup in September. It will be the second international series played this year in the UAE, the out going CEO of Emirates Cricket Board, Dilawar Mani believes international cricket in recent years has increased the popularity of the game in UAE. It was almost three years ago when Australia played last in UAE, and it is expected their fans will also come out in large numbers to support the men in yellow. gulftoday .