Abu Dhabi T10 is a significant milestone, says Shaji Ul Mulk

Shaji Ul Mulk speaks during the Press conference of the upcoming Abu Dhabi T10 tournament. - Photo by Ryan Lim

Small talk can lead to big things. In the case of Shaji Ul Mulk, his chitchat with cricketers like Chris Gayle and their instant approval of the idea was the stepping stone for T10 League.
And now Shaji, chairman of T10 League, is celebrating another milestone as the third edition will be played in partnership with the Abu Dhabi government - a first occurrence for cricket here in the UAE.
The Press conference saw active participation from officials from Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Cricket and Emirates Cricket Board. Shaji termed the developments as 'significant milestone'.
"With Abu Dhabi T10, it is for the first time in the history of the UAE sports that the government is backing a cricket league. Abu Dhabi Sports Council, DCT - Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Cricket have combined together to support the T10 League and rename it as Abu Dhabi T10.
"The presence of these officials shows the strength and support for T10 League. I am happy the government has seen merit in the sport of cricket," Shaji told Khaleej Times on sidelines of the event.
He said some 200 players have confirmed for the Nov. 15-24 tournament and the number will hopefully double in coming weeks. "We will have the world's best talents here. The power of top players and support of Abu Dhabi government will create a new experience for people here and visitors. Tourists can also visit all the beautiful sites."
Shaji promises a star-studded lineup of events on and off the pitch. "We are going to have very big opening ceremony with top celebrities on November 14. A fan village has been created next to the stadium.
"We are trying to create a whole new experience with not just cricket but non-stop entertainment. The standard of T10 will be up to the mark of a world-class global property. And I am confident T10 will add value to emirate of Abu Dhabi."
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com