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The 16-year-old Zayed Cricket Academy teenager made his debut in the team’s first match of the season
Ethan D’Souza in the opening game. – Photos provided
Ethan D’Sousa became the youngest player in Abu Dhabi’s T10 history to represent Abu Dhabi on Wednesday night as the 16-year-old Zayed Cricket Academy batsman represented the capital against defending champions Germany. Dry Gladiators.
D’Souza was initially placed on the bench before being replaced by UAE international Alishan Sharafu, who sprained his ankle during a warm-up match.
It opened the door for D’Souza to make history at the Zayed Cricket Ground, which adjoins the academy where the teenager has played since he was seven.
D’Souza had previously sat in the same stadium as a fan to watch Abu Dhabi T10, but on Wednesday night he himself took center stage.
Abu Dhabi Indian School’s Year 11 students continued to catch the ball safely in the deep sea to take Sultan Ahmed away on a night to remember, with his family watching from the stands and everyone involved with the Abu Dhabi team personal.
It’s a great feeling. You never expect opportunities like this, but when you get them, you just want to do well,” D’Souza said.
“I saw my friends and family on the field and it made me see what I was like two or three years ago when I came to watch the Abu Dhabi T10 as a fan. I am very grateful for this opportunity and I want to give my best in this time In the game. I was nervous about the first two or three possessions, but when I got used to it, it was the same. Every game, you had to watch the ball, and when the catch came, I just told myself to do what I would .”
Abu Dhabi coach Paul Fabres was proud of his youngster’s performance.
“I think Ethan is outstanding, he’s been great on the pitch, he’s got the ball well, he’s calm under pressure and he’s been training really well the last few days,” Fabres said.
“Ethan has been a real reward for us and the kids in the area and the kids here in Abu Dhabi to see that if you practice and play the right way, the chances are what you want, he has a lot of respect for him. A real honor to himself and his family.
“It’s fantastic for the Zayed Cricket Academy and the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Center that they think a 16-year-old can come into the team, get picked and play the first game of the tournament. It’s absolutely It’s fantastic and should really motivate young cricketers in the region and if they work hard, they will have their chance.”
Abu Dhabi ended up underwhelming against the Deccan Gladiators, ending their 19-game losing streak, but Fabres believes De Sousa’s performance was more important.
He said: “It’s very disappointing that we didn’t win the match, but we’re delighted that all the good work done by the Zayed Cricket Academy and the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Center is actually bearing fruit. It means a lot to the coach. major and college.”
Abu Dhabi welcomed England international James Vince into the squad on the eve of the game, with the 31-year-old starting batsman replacing compatriot Phil Salter, who was absent through injury.
Leg-turner Adil Rashid will also join his Abu Dhabi team-mates on Thursday and will be selected for Friday’s next game against the Delhi Bulls.
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