The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to introduce a ground-breaking cricket tournament, the Elite Corporate Cricket Bash (ECCB), in November, featuring the innovative 100-ball format. 

Popularized in the UK, this exciting format consists of 100 balls per innings, with each bowler delivering five-ball overs.

The ECCB, organized by Petromann Sports Management in collaboration with the Sharjah Cricket Council and Emirates Cricket Board, will see 12 corporate-owned teams compete for a hefty prize pool of Dh1.3 million. Over 10 days of thrilling cricket action, 36 matches will be played at the iconic Sharjah International Stadium.

Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, “We are delighted to stage the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. The Emirates Cricket Board has time and again proved its hosting capabilities and we are once again ready to deliver a world-class event. I want to thank the International Cricket Council and the Bangladesh Cricket Board for their trust and confidence in us."

An impressive advisory board has been assembled for the ECCB, including former Australian cricketer and World Cup-winning coach Dav Whatmore. His extensive experience coaching national teams and franchise sides globally will lend further credibility to the event.

Mubashshir Usmani, General Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board, emphasized the tournament's significance, stating, “The ECCB is a welcome addition to our cricket calendar and aligns with our broader vision of promoting local talent and expanding the player base in the UAE. By creating such opportunities for corporates to engage in cricket, we are fostering a love for the sport while providing a platform for talented individuals to shine.”