Abraj Premier League unites Indian expats in Bahrain for a cricketing extravaganza
Cricket has once again proven its power to unite the Indian expatriate community, as the fifth season of the Abraj Premier League (APL) is set to begin. Inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL), this homegrown championship in Bahrain brings together six teams of passionate amateur players, all residents of the Abraj Al Lulu residential complex. The tournament, registered with the Bahrain Cricket Federation, will take place at Water Garden City in Seef District, reported gulfweekly.com.
The league features teams such as Abraj Strikers, Gladiators, Supergiants, Rocking Royals, Violets, and Daredevils. Each team will play 10 matches, adopting a home-and-away format, with two games scheduled every Saturday until the league’s winter break on December 7. Play will resume in January, with the finals set for February 22. The top four teams will progress to the knockout stage, and the highest-ranked team will receive two opportunities to qualify for the final.
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Despite challenges such as the intense heat of Bahrain, the league’s organizers have worked hard to provide optimal playing conditions
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They have created improvised cricket grounds on vacant plots, using artificial turf over cement surfaces
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The success of APL has not only raised the profile of cricket in Bahrain but also highlighted the potential for grassroots sports development in the region
Founded by seven residents—Abhishek Srivastava, Atul Malhotra, Ashwani Bhatia, Manish Jangid, Rohit Srivastava, Vinit Maroo, and Vinod Rathi—the APL has grown into a significant event for the Indian community in Bahrain. Chartered accountant Vinod Rathi, one of the founders, explains that what began as a friendly gathering to play cricket has now transformed into a league involving 84 amateur players aged between 15 and 58. The league not only promotes cricket but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange among the diverse group of Indian expatriates.
Membership is restricted to residents of Abraj Al Lulu, creating a tight-knit group bonded by their common cultural roots. The APL continues to thrive, thanks to the contributions of its executive committee, which now includes members such as Ankit Bhutda, Rakesh Bhujang, Surendra Singh Jaggi, and Vinay Gupta.
The APL follows IPL-style player auctions, where team captains use virtual money to bid for players. The players are graded based on their previous performances, with newcomers starting at the lowest level. Teams must operate within a set budget and follow player category limits during the auction process.
This season has witnessed an increase in interest, with more sponsors supporting the event. Two trophies and various prizes are at stake, further raising the excitement. Entrepreneur Manish Jangid emphasized the league’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and competitive atmosphere, ensuring that participants feel included.
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