Budding cricketers from across the world have the opportunity to feature in the Abu Dhabi T10 next month - by showcasing their talents through an app.
Abu Dhabi T10 has teamed up with UAE-based digital platform Dreams2Play to host a unique programme, through which up-and-coming amateur cricketers can apply for selection in the 10-over competition.
In what has been called the world’s first ‘digital-to-physical’ search for talent, cricketers can create online profiles and upload videos of their performances – either bowling, batting, wicket-keeping or fielding – through the app Dreams2Play. The profiles will be judged by a panel of ICC-approved coaches.
Dreams2Play will then deliver a list of around 100 players for a special player draft where each of the eight teams must pick one or two names. And they will get the golden opportunity to play alongside the biggest names in international cricket during the tournament at the Zayed Cricket Stadium from November 15-24.
It's a simple four step process that includes signing up, paying an entry fees of $30 (Dh 110), uploading the profile and then submitting it. However, there is not a lot of time left as applications are already open and the last date for submitting entries is October 31.
Shaji Ul Mulk, chairman of Abu Dhabi T10, said: “As the momentum for the Abu Dhabi T10 picks up, we want to bring some of the best cricketing talents to Abu Dhabi T10 and display their cricketing prowess.
“The Abu Dhabi T10 talent hunt is very unique, like the league itself. Players from anywhere can qualify to play in the league, through the app. We want new talents to use Abu Dhabi T10 as a launchpad for their career."
Vishal Vyas, founder and chief executive officer of Dreams2Play, said: “Each team in the Abu Dhabi T10 League will select one or two players from the emerging talent draft. It's an opportunity no talent hunt promises. We put budding sports stars in the driving seat of their own career.”
Log on to https://dreams2play.com/ for more information. The app can be downloaded from Google Play. Organisers say the application will be available on the App Store from Thursday, October 24.
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“It was worse than a prison sentence, where at least someone can deal with a set amount of time incarcerated," she said.
“They were living in perpetual mystery as to how their futures would pan out, and what that would be.
“Because of coronavirus, the world is very different now to the one they left, that will also have an impact.
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Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
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