CRICKET – ABRAJ Strikers claimed a four-wicket victory over Abraj Gladiators in a nail-biting contest held as part of the opening match day yesterday in the much-anticipated fifth season of the Abraj Premier League (APL).
The tournament showcases the passion for cricket within Bahrain’s Indian expatriate community.
Inspired by the glitz and glamour of the Indian Premier League (IPL), this community-driven event has evolved into a fierce competition involving six teams, namely the Strikers and Gladiators as well as the Abraj SuperGiants, Abraj Rocking Royals, Abraj Violets, and Abraj Daredevils.
The league, founded by residents of the Abraj Al Lulu residential complex, has become a fixture in Bahrain’s sporting calendar, providing a platform for social interaction, cultural exchange, and grassroots sports development.
Each team is composed of amateur players, who battle it out at Water Garden City in Seef for the coveted championship trophy. The tournament format mirrors that of professional cricket leagues, with each team playing 10 matches, home and away, in the group stage.
The top four will then proceed to the playoffs, with the final scheduled for February 22 of next year.
In the Strikers’ win, the Gladiators could not hold their nerve, despite a solid performance. The Strikers chased down the target with ease in 19.2 overs.
Rakesh Kumar stole the show for the victors with his exceptional all-round performance, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Also taking a victory were the Daredevils, who narrowly defeated the SuperGiants in another closely fought contest.
The Daredevils defended their total in a thrilling finish, securing victory by just eight runs in 19.4 overs. Ankit Bhutda of Abraj Daredevils was named Player of the Match for his outstanding contributions with both bat and ball.
The APL community has long fostered an environment of inclusivity, with participants ranging in age from 15 to 58.
Despite facing challenges such as Bahrain’s heat, the organisers have worked tirelessly to maintain the high standards of the league, even improvising with artificial turf laid over cement pitches to enhance playing conditions.
“What started as a casual gathering of friends eager to play cricket in an organised manner has evolved into a six-team spectacle involving 84 amateur players,” said Vinod Rathi, one of the league’s founders.
The competition is backed by local sponsors, including Mega Contracting, Weathercool, BFC, Desi Zaika, and the Abraj Lulu Association.
This season, two trophies and several prizes are up for grabs.
The league is also making use of digital platforms like the CricHeroes app for live streaming and match tracking, ensuring fans stay connected to every ball bowled. The organisers hope this initiative will continue raising awareness about cricket in Bahrain, providing an opportunity for grassroots talent to shine and encouraging more community-driven sporting events.
For all the live action, results, and updates, follow the APL on the CricHeroes app and join the excitement as the league progresses toward its grand finale in February.
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