Shyam Bhatia annual awards
The first Shyam Bhatia annual awards instituted
July 14, 1998
Every great deed in this world has been born out of a deep passion and love for that act. The Shyam Bhatia annual awards for cricket excellence is a prime example since it was created by a cricket enthusiast who deeply loved and cared for the game and its players. Shyam Bhatia launched the annual awards on July 14, 1998, under the auspices of the Dubai Cricket Council (DCC) at the India Sports Club.
The first awards were announced by the then DCC secretary, Vikram Kaul, in the presence of Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of DCC, and Mohammad Redha Abbas, Vice chairman, DCC.
Kashif Khan of Dnata/Emirates, who scored 890 runs in 10 innings with an average of 127.10 for the season and six centuries, was the inaugural winner of the Cricketer of the Year award. He received a cash prize of Dh 3000.
Arshad Al, who later became a consistent winner of the Shyam Bhatia awards, was the first recipient of the Cricketer of the Year award in the junior division. He scored 1095 runs in ten innings, including five hundreds, and received a cash prize of Dh 2000.
In the senior division, Ali Akbar Rana won the award for the best batsman, while Rashid Malik was awarded the best bowler. Both received a cash prize of Dh 2000 each. In the junior division, Saleem Saeed won the best batsman award, and Raju Rupani won the best bowler award. Both received Dh 1000 each.
During the ceremony, Bhatia announced that from the following year, there would be an award for the best umpire as well. "Umpires do a thankless job, and an award of Dh 2000 is a token of appreciation for their efforts," he said. Bhatia also called upon business houses to come forward and sponsor cricket, emphasizing the need for a collective effort.
Second edition of the Shyam Bhatia annual awards swells with more categories
September 16, 1999
The second Shyam Bhatia award, held on September 16, 1999, under the aegis of the Dubai Cricket Council (DCC) at the Indian Sports Club, was special in many ways. For the first time, umpires were awarded for their year-long performance. Shyam Bhatia, addressing the gathering, said, "These awards are not only for the runs scored and wickets taken but also for discipline and good behavior. Umpires, often neglected on these occasions, will also be awarded now."
Sher Afzal was given the Most Motivated Umpire award, while Mohammed Saeed won the award for excellent execution of duties. Kifayat Hussain of Butt Engineering bagged the Cricketer of the Year award. He also received a cash award of Dh 3000. Kashif Khan of Dnata/Emirates won the Best Batsman award and a cash prize of Dh 3000, while Zulfiqar Butt of Malik News Agency bagged the Best Bowler award and a cash prize of Dh 2000.
In Division B, Ajith Puthran of Consolidated Shipping Services won the Best Batsman award, while Shahtaj Shahji won the Best Bowler award. The Best Allrounder award was won by Syed Maqsood.
Vikram Kaul, DCC secretary, hailed Bhatia’s support and also announced that DCC had staged 1400 matches this season, with an average of five to six games every day. In his speech, he said, "DCC is the only organization in the Middle East that has its own weekly airtime on radio and its own website. These achievements were only possible with the strong backing from our sponsors and the active involvement of people like Shyam Bhatia."
DCC then presented special plaques to the long-time DCC luminary B.S. Shetty and Shyam Bhatia.
The third Shyam Bhatia annual award gets more contenders
October 2, 2000
The third Shyam Bhatia annual awards ceremony was held on October 2, 2000, at the Indian Sports Club, featuring intense competition across all categories. The popularity of this award had spread so much among domestic cricketers that every player gave their best in all matches. Three cricketers who later became UAE's star players and coaches won the top awards.
Arshad Ali won the coveted Cricketer of the Year award and a cash prize of Dh 3000. This marked the third successive year he had been among the awardees. Khurram Khan, who went on to lead UAE years later, won the best bowler award in the senior division. Jairaj Thakur, who later established himself as an outstanding coach, bagged the best batsman of the year award in the senior division and received a cash prize of Dh 2000.
In the junior division, the prolific scorer Saleem Khan won the best player award, while Syed Maqsood won the best batsman award. The best bowler award was won by Naeemullah Khan.
Shyam Bhatia, arriving for the function straight from the airport after a trip to Mumbai, appealed to big corporate houses in his speech, urging them to come forward and support the game. He said, "I know it's a hard time for the game to flourish since many leading sponsors are backing out of the game. I love the game and will continue to boost it in whatever capacity I can. As long as I am in the UAE, I will continue these awards."
In the days leading to this function, local umpires were locked in a payment dispute with the DCC. About this unfortunate issue, Bhatia remarked, "These disputes should be solved on the field itself since we are here to enjoy the game. Hence, everyone should join hands for a settlement. We have to remember that no individual is greater than the game."
DCC Chairman Abdul Rehman Falaknaz then thanked Bhatia for his support towards cricketers.
Fourth Shyam Bhaita award
Super Cat Clive Lloyd enthralls UAE’s cricket fraternity
November 5, 2001
The fourth annual Shyam Bhatia award ceremony took place in 2004, captivating the cricket fraternity of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the presence of the legendary cricketer, Clive Lloyd. Held under the auspices of the Dubai Cricket Council, the event saw Lloyd, the towering colossus of West Indies cricket, inspire everyone at the vibrant function held at the India Sports Club. The cricket community turned out in unprecedented numbers, as never before had a living legend bestowed prizes upon domestic cricketers and umpires. Inviting a legend like Lloyd was the purpose behind Shyam Bhatia's initiative, aiming to motivate the cricketers by showcasing Lloyd's remarkable career as an example to emulate.
Nicknamed the "Super Cat," Lloyd was not only a superb batsman but also an exceptional skipper. Standing tall at the crease, this 6ft 4in batsman commanded respect from bowlers. As a captain, he demanded admiration from all opposing teams and went on to win the first two editions of the World Cup, keeping West Indies cricket at the pinnacle for two decades. During his speech at the award function, Lloyd shared insights into his career journey, highlighting his humble background and the loss of his father at the tender age of 12. He offered valuable advice to the players, emphasizing the importance of three key elements: Pride, Passion, and Professionalism. Concluding his speech, he remarked, "To reach the highest level of the game, players must endure a lot of struggle and effort, and therefore, never give up."
Lauding Shyam Bhatia's initiative to recognize and reward achievements, Lloyd expressed his appreciation, saying, "I love the game, and I am proud of individuals like Shyam who contribute to cricket." Arshad Ali, a consistent performer in domestic cricket, emerged as the Cricketer of the Year, amassing 679 runs and claiming 14 wickets. Hassan Miyan received the award for the best batsman, having scored 355 runs with two centuries and a half-century, while Bilal Khan was honored as the best bowler with 22 wickets. In the junior division, Saleem Khan and Mohammad Ajmal won the best player and best bowler awards, respectively, while Syed Maqsood claimed the best batsman award. Razzaq Shah was recognized as the best umpire in the A Division, and Mohammed Saleem received the same honor in the B Division.
After announcing a 25 percent increase in the prize money, Bhatia declared that the award was worth Dhs 16,000.
Fifth Shyam Bhatia award: Sunil Gavaskar
Sunil Gavasar enthralls UAE cricket fraternity and presents the fifth annual Shyam Bhata Awards
October 15, 2002
The fifth annual Shyam Bhata Awards in 2005 was marked by an enthralling message from the legendary Sunil Gavaskar on the importance of loving the game and teamwork. The event took place at the Dubai Intercontinental Hotel, where Gavaskar, who had shattered numerous batting records and set a benchmark for future generations, presented the awards. The presence of Clive Lloyd and former India captain S. Venkataraghavan added to the excitement of the occasion.
Everyone in attendance eagerly awaited Gavaskar's speech, as they had witnessed most of his centuries and were amazed by his unwavering concentration and focus that brought glory to Indian cricket. Bhatia, who invited the legend, received immense praise for recognizing Gavaskar's journey from a humble background in Mumbai to becoming the world's greatest batsman. Gavaskar had paved the way for many who followed him, demonstrating that records could be broken with relentless determination.
In his speech, Gavaskar emphasized the importance of love for the game, stating, "We all want our sweat, tears, and sometimes blood to be recognized. Incentives do motivate you, but young players must realize that awards are secondary. The most crucial aspect is to love the game you pursue." He also stressed the significance of teamwork, highlighting that batsmen require support from the other end to score centuries, while bowlers rely on good fielding and catching to restrict runs.
During his speech, Shyam Bhatia expressed his dream of seeing the UAE host events like the World Cup, ICC Trophy, or Asia Cup. His dream turned into reality within a few years, with the UAE becoming a venue for both the World Cup and the Asia Cup. Additionally, starting from this edition of the Bhatia Awards, the recognition expanded beyond DCC tournaments to include tournaments organized by other councils, acknowledging the best performers in domestic cricket. Bhatia also announced a 25 percent increase in the prize money, raising it to Dh 20,000.
The senior category's best cricketer award went to Kashif Ahmed for scoring 431 runs and taking seven wickets. Asghar Ali received the best batsman award for his impressive score of 379 runs, while Mohammad Hyder Ali won the best bowler award for taking eight wickets. In the junior category, Saleem Khan once again secured the best player award, scoring 786 runs and claiming 12 wickets. Mohammad Badshah was recognized as the best batsman, having scored 874 runs, and Shaukat Ali was awarded the best bowler for his 23 wickets. Abdul Bari and Shahid Butt received the best umpire awards in the senior and junior divisions, respectively.
Sixth Shyam Bhatia award: Imran Khan
Imran Khan elevates the charm of Shyam Bhaita Awards presenting the sixth annual honours
The sixth annual Shyam Bhaita Awards in 2006 witnessed a momentous occasion as Imran Khan, who would later become the Prime Minister of Pakistan, graced the event at the Dubai Intercontinental Hotel. The presence of one of the greatest all-rounders elevated the prestige and glamour of these awards. Imran, an inspiration and role model, made the award presentation an unforgettable moment for all the recipients. Former Pakistan Test stars Mudassar Nazar and Tauseef Ahmed also attended the function.
During his speech, Imran emphasized the significance of top-class domestic cricket and called for an inter-regional tournament when there was no Inter Emirates tournament in place. He stated, "Unless you have quality inter-regional cricket, it is not possible to compete at the top level." At that time, former Indian all-rounder Abid Ali was the coach of the UAE team. Imran praised the decision to appoint Abid Ali but also highlighted the importance of a strong domestic structure for his success. He stressed the need for inter-city, inter-state, or inter-regional cricket to develop players effectively, even if cricket academies and top coaches were in place.
In his speech, Bhatia advocated for an Inter Emirates tournament and organizing matches against GCC countries, which would later become a reality. He also expressed his vision of hosting a mini World Cup in Abu Dhabi, along with the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, as the Dubai stadium was set to be constructed at Sports City. Within a few years, the UAE would indeed host a major World Cup. Imran reminisced about his playing days and remarked, "I have been meeting Bhatia since I started playing cricket in Sharjah. His passion for the game is unparalleled."
Arshad Ali received the best batsman award in the senior division for his score of 394 runs, while Khurram Khan, who later captained the UAE team, won the best bowler award with 13 wickets. Nasir Siddiqui was recognized as the best player, contributing 334 runs and claiming 11 wickets. The best umpire award was presented to Sher Afzal.
In the junior division, Mohammed Iqbal secured the best batsman award with an impressive score of 798 runs, while CTK Mashood claimed the best bowler award with 24 wickets. Mohammed Nadeem Haji was honored as the best player, scoring 729 runs and taking 11 wickets. Mushtaq Ahmed received the best umpire award.
Seventh Shyam Bhatia award: Michael Holding
Graceful and legendary pacer Michael Holding graces seventh Shyam Bhatia Awards
The seventh Shyam Bhatia Awards were presented by Michael Holding, one of the greatest bowlers of all time known for his graceful run-up and bowling action, which earned him the nickname "Whispering Death." The awards ceremony, held at the Dubai Intercontinental Hotel, celebrated the outstanding performers in UAE cricket, who were recognized with awards and cash prizes. Holding's eloquence and expressive views, akin to his smooth bowling, enthralled the audience.
During his speech, Holding emphasized the qualities of being a good pacer. He remarked, "Just as a batsman should not take long to score, bowlers should also take quick wickets. It requires mental application and concentration." He urged the cricketers to draw inspiration from these awards and elevate the standards of UAE cricket on the international stage. Additionally, during the function, Burhan Khan, ABN Amro bank manager, presented Bhatia with $10,000 (approx. Dh36,780) for his book "Portraits of the Game," which Bhatia subsequently donated to the development of West Indies cricket through Holding.
The Dubai Cricket Council, under whose auspices the function was held, invited all cricket councils in the UAE to nominate their best performers, as well as top cricket officials and captains of domestic cricket teams. For the first time, the best umpires from the three cricket councils were honored with awards. Mohammad Ajmal was chosen as the best umpire by the Abu Dhabi Cricket Council, Talib Hussain by the Dubai Cricket Council, and late Fareed Malek by the Sharjah Cricket Council.
Arshad Ali continued his dominance as one of the top award winners, securing the Bhatia Award for the best batsman in the senior division with a score of 316 runs. Syed Maqsood claimed the best all-rounder award in the senior division, scoring 369 runs and taking ten wickets. Piyush Maloo of Air India won the best bowler's award with 14 wickets.
In the junior division, Amjad Ali, who scored 712 runs and picked up four wickets, was honored with the best all-rounder award. Irfan Dar received the best batsman award with 401 runs, while Shahji Shahtaj Ul Mulk was recognized as the best bowler for his 20 wickets.
Bhatia stressed the importance of organizing more competitive matches, stating, "Only through better competitions can cricketers improve, and hence there should be inter-emirates matches." The function also featured the presentation of a memento to Ramakant Achrekar, the coach who groomed Sachin Tendulkar.
Eighth Shyam Bhatia Award: Ravi Shastri
Ravi Shastri captivates awardees and cricket fraternity during eighth Shyam Bhatia Awards
The eighth Shyam Bhatia Awards in 2008 were presented by Ravi Shastri, former India captain and all-rounder, at the Dubai Intercontinental Hotel. Known for his skills as a fine commentator, he entertained the audience with an inspiring speech. Clive Lloyd was also present at the function.
During his speech, Shastri made a prediction that UAE would become one of the contenders to host the World Cup cricket tournament in 10 to 15 years, a prediction that would later come true. He emphasized that for cricket to flourish in the UAE, more people needed to come forward to support the game.
Shastri praised the efforts of Shyam Bhatia, stating, "People like Shyam Bhatia, who invest in the game, should be commended. What is the point of inviting the greatest cricketers and staging matches if money is not reinvested into the game? Funds should be directed towards grassroots levels to encourage youngsters to play the game." He also highlighted why cricket is a great sport to play, stating, "It teaches discipline, determination, and concentration. It also teaches humility. On a Tuesday, you might score a century, but on the very next Sunday, you might get out for a zero."
Shastri emphasized the importance of such awards, stating, "These awards serve as inspiration for many budding cricketers who receive tremendous encouragement when their performances are recognized."
The best allrounder award in senior division went to Indika Batuwitrachi, who scored 319 runs from seven matches for an average of 53.17 and pocketed 8 wickets. His teammate Oshada Warnapura won the best batsman award scoring 195 runs from 7 matches. Indika received Dh4,000 while Oshada pocketed Dh3,000.
Javed Esmail of Fly Emirates won the best bowler award and Dh3,000 by picking 24 wickets.
In the junior division, Abdul Rahman of Solanki Construction bagged the best allrounder award and cash prize of Dh2,500 for scoring 522 runs and bagging nine wickets.
Baber Malek of Emirates Bank won the best batsman award and Dh1,500 for his 497 runs. His teammate Saleem Saeed bagged the best bowler award again after a one-year gap. He picked 17 wickets for 157 runs.
The best umpire of the Sharjah Cricket Council went to Prem Mishra while Mohammad Saeed emerged as the best from Dubai Cricket Council. Salman Ahmad, who was nominated as the best umpire from Abu Dhabi, did not turn up to receive the prize. All the umpires received cash prize of Dh1,500 each
A total cash award of Dh20,000 was given away.
Shyam Bhatia addressing the gathering said: "I am a keen lover of the game and through these awards I am hoping to assist in promotion of the game here. I want all the cricket councils here to work together for the game. I will increase the prize money next year to include the junior cricketers, especially the Under-19 and Under-15 cricketers. I have managed to inspire cricketers by inviting the legends of the game to give away the awards.
Ninth Shyam Bhatia award: Ian Chappell
Elegant Ian Chappell illuminates ninth Shyam Bhatia Awards
Ian Chappell, the former Australian captain, presented the ninth Shyam Bhatia Awards at the Radisson SAS Hotel in Dubai. As an elegant batsman who left an indelible mark on world cricket with his spectacular batting, his presence illuminated the function. While most of the audience had only watched him play on television, they have admired his talent, especially his nimble footwork against spinners and delightful drives through the covers.
Curiosity filled the air as everyone wanted to know why Australia had been a dominant power in world cricket. Chappell explained, "There is no big secret to the success of the Australian team. It is not the academies or the technical edge, but the system that the country follows in pushing youngsters to their limits."
Chappell then urged the UAE to create a system that would lead to the production of good players. "The system can be adopted by and adapted in any country," he added. He also shared insights on how to become a top player and how to remain at the top, stating, "If a player is strong, he will rise to the top. By the time he reaches the top, he has gone through the grind and been tested multiple times. So, when a player delivers at a crucial stage, not surprisingly, as he has already faced tough times before."
The spotlight during the event was on Arshad Ali, the then UAE skipper, who had received his sixth Bhatia Award in nine years. He was honored with the Best Allrounder award for scoring 632 runs and taking 22 wickets. Kashif Khan secured the Best Batsman award with 633 runs, while Faraz Ul Haq received the Best Bowler prize with 33 wickets.
In the junior division, Mohammad Fayyaz won the Best Allrounder award with 223 runs and 25 wickets. Amjad Ali was awarded the Best Batsman for scoring 681 runs, and Shafaqat Ali claimed the Best Bowler title with 22 wickets. The Best Umpire award for Dubai went to Nazir Surti, Mohammad Asif won the award for Abu Dhabi, and Tariq Butt was recognized as the Best Umpire from Sharjah.
During his keynote address, Shyam Bhatia stated, "These awards are like the Oscars for cricket in the UAE, and they are organized solely out of pure love for the game. I believe in our players, and I know how much they look up to the legends who have graced the sport over the years. It means a lot to our cricketers to have some of the most famous names from the world of cricket come to Dubai and present these awards. I aim to inspire cricketers in this part of the world, and I am convinced that these awards play a significant role in achieving this objective." Bhatia concluded by announcing a 25 percent increase in the total cash award amount, which reached Dh 20,000, for the following year.
Tenth Shyam Bhatia Award: Wasim Akram
The ‘Sultan of Swing’ Wasim Akram bowls over UAE cricket lovers during tenth Shyam Bhatia Awards
The tenth Shyam Bhatia Awards were presented by former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram, one of the world's greatest swing bowlers and popularly known as the Sultan of Swing, at the SAS Radisson Hotel in Dubai. The event was graced by the presence of former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar, David Morgan, president of the ICC, Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive, and Ehsan Mani, the former ICC president.
The UAE cricket fraternity was in awe of being able to closely interact with this legendary bowler who has bewildered batsmen and left spectatotrs spellbound with his deliveries. As he stood up to speak, his graceful run-up and unplayable swinging deliveries, accurate yorkers, crafty slower balls, and the deadly bouncers came to the minds of everyone in attendance. While acknowledging the significant role the UAE has played in his career, his remark, "It was while bowling in Sharjah that I learned how to bowl on slow tracks. I will always be ready to help the youngsters in the region," garnered a huge applause.
During the function, Akram also spoke about Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, saying, "He (Dhoni) is a charismatic leader. He leads from the front and is not scared of losing. This is the most important thing. He takes decisions without any hesitation. You may make a few mistakes, but eventually, you learn from them."
In the Senior Division A tournament, Amjad Javed won the Best Allrounder award, while Rameez Shahzad and Saqib Ali of New Medical Centre were awarded the Best Batsman and Best Bowler titles, respectively. In the junior division, Nazir Aziz won the Best Bowler award, Azhar Gul received the Best Batsman award, and Shafaqat Ali Kadim was honored with the Best Allrounder award.
Awards were also presented to cricketers under the age of 15. Adil Khalil of Arab Unity School won the Best Allrounder award, Tanmay Anand of Combined Schools received the Best Batsman award, and Kailash Chotalia of Dubai Modern School was recognized as the Best Bowler.
Shyam Bhatia encouraged the councils to organize more 50-over matches and work hard to qualify for the next World Cup. Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, chairman of the Dubai Cricket Council, expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is indeed a great honor to have Akram present the prizes, and once again, we thank Bhatia for this noble gesture." Interestingly, Ali, a prolific batsman, was selected for the ICC dream team based on his batting performance in the ICC Intercontinental Cup. "To be frank, I feel bad about being selected as the best bowler when my forte is batting. However, it is a great honor since I have won the award based on my bowling performance in the Bukhatir League," he remarked.
Shahzad, who has had intermittent appearances in the UAE team, scored 282 runs with one century and an average of 141 runs in the Bukhatir League. He stated, "This award will give me the confidence to continue scoring and solidify my place in the UAE team."
David Morgan, the president of the ICC, Haroon Lorgat, the ICC chief executive, and Ehsan Mani, the former ICC president, were also in attendance at the function.
Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, the chairman of the DCC, expressed his appreciation, saying, "It is indeed a great honor to have Akram present the prizes, and once again, we thank Bhatia for this noble gesture." Bhatia urged the councils to organize more 50-over matches and strive to qualify for the next World Cup.
11th Shyam Bhatia Award: Andrew Flintoff
Andrew Flintoff’s prophetic talk excites cricket lovers during 11th Shyam Bhatia Awards
The 11th Shyam Bhatia Awards were presented by England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff at the SAS Radisson Hotel in Dubai. Flintoff, a cricketer who had created numerous memorable moments in world cricket, excited the cricket fraternity with his exceptional skills. Affectionately known as Freddie, this handsome cricketer had always displayed fierce determination, and his batting, bowling, and fielding were always a treat to watch.
Addressing the gathering, Flintoff expressed his belief in the immense potential of sports in the UAE. He remarked, "A lot of sports events have taken place here in the past couple of months. The world's best tennis players are coming here in a week's time. The facilities here are second to none, and the Dubai Sports City has all the necessary amenities. Dubai's proximity to major cricket-playing nations like India, South Africa, and Australia is another attraction. I believe that over the next few years, we will witness a multitude of major sporting events taking place in Dubai." It didn't take long for his prediction to come true.
While Flintoff advocated Test cricket as the best form of the game, he also predicted the emergence of new shots and deliveries. He said, "I see Tests as the best form of the game, the one I enjoyed playing the most. However, I believe there will be slight changes in the game in the years to come. Players evolve with the advent of new shots and deliveries, making the game faster. I don't see this as a negative aspect; rather, it could have a positive impact as scores will increase. Nevertheless, I know players still regard Test cricket as the purest form."
This edition of the awards witnessed Michael Natasha becoming the first female recipient of the Shyam Bhatia Award. Natasha had earned the best batter award in the Asian Cricket Council Under-19 women's tournament in Thailand, scoring 121 runs, including a half-century. She had also captained the UAE team at the age of 12 in the ACC women's tournament in 2007. Saqib Ali received the best all-rounder award in Division 1 for his prolific scoring, accumulating 446 runs at an average of 89.2 and taking six wickets. Kashif Ahmed won the best batsman award for his performance of 149 runs in the Al Dhaid Gold Cup tournament and 257 runs in the Bukhatir League, while Sanjeewa Dias claimed the best bowler award with 29 wickets.
In Division 2, Arfan Haider secured the best all-rounder award. He amassed 461 runs and also took 39 wickets. The best batsman award went to Mohammed Asif, who scored a total of 1047 runs in five tournaments. Shadeep Silva received the best bowler award, bagging 55 wickets. The best umpire awards were presented to Lekh Raj (Abu Dhabi Cricket Council), Talib Hussain (Ajman Cricket Council), BA Khan (Dubai Cricket Council), and Fidel Jeary (Sharjah Cricket Council). It was the first time that the Ajman Council had nominated one of their umpires.
12th Shyam Bhatia Award: Kapil Dev
Kapil Dev boosts 12th Shyam Bhatia Awards through his inspiring presence
The 12th Shyam Bhatia Awards were presented by Indian all-rounder Kapil Dev at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. A large crowd of domestic cricketers, cricket council officials, coaches, umpires, and supporters of the game had gathered to cheer for Kapil Dev, who had led India to victory in the 1983 World Cup. This award function marked another glorious moment in the history of the Shyam Bhatia Awards.
Kapil Dev, with his daring batting and exceptional seam, swing, and pace bowling, had won the hearts of cricket lovers worldwide. The recipients of the Shyam Bhatia Awards for their outstanding performance in domestic cricket, honored by Kapil Dev, were thrilled with the recognition. When asked about the quality he shared with Dhoni during the function, he remarked, "It is very difficult to speak about my own qualities, but I think Dhoni's approach to the game is very simple and straightforward. The one quality I admire about him is his willingness to take risks."
"When you take risks and things don't go your way, you can face heavy criticism from the media. One ball or one decision can change the life of a sportsman, but it is those who have the courage to take risks who come out victorious."
Abdul Rahman, who displayed scintillating form by scoring 530 runs, received the best batsman award, while Shadeep Silva won the best bowler award by taking 23 wickets. Nazir Aziz, who scored 396 runs and picked up 19 wickets, received the best all-rounder award.
In the B division, the consistent C.T.K. Mashood, who claimed 36 wickets with his left-arm spin, received the best bowler award. Ayub Inayat, with 500 runs, bagged the best batsman award, while Zaheer Baig, with 505 runs and five wickets, walked away with the best all-rounder award.
Razzak Shah, nominated by the Ajman Council, won the best umpire's award for the third time. He had previously received the award in 1998 and 2009 while representing the Dubai Cricket Council. Shahbaz Ahmad of Abu Dhabi, Bahadur Ali Khan of Dubai, and Arshad Ansari of Sharjah were recognized as the best umpires by their respective councils.
Shruti Pathak Pandey became only the second recipient to be crowned the Best Women's Cricketer of the UAE. She had represented the UAE in the ACC Twenty20 Women's Championship in 2009, where she was recognized as the best batswoman and bowler. Leading the UAE team in the same tournament in 2011 in Kuwait, she emerged as the second-highest scorer with 136 runs and took four wickets.
Top administrators Mazhar Khan of the Sharjah Cricket Council, Wajahat Hussain of the Abu Dhabi Cricket Council, Shaji Ul Mulk of the Ajman Cricket Council, and Mohammad Lokhandwala of the Dubai Cricket Council were all honored during the award function.
13th Shyam Bhatia award: Arjuna Ranatunga
Inspiring captain and resolute Arjuna Ranatunga presents 13th Shyam Bhatia Award
Sri Lanka's World Cup-winning captain, Arjuna Ranatunga, presented the 13th Shyam Bhatia awards at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. It was a remarkable occasion for the talented domestic cricketers to receive their awards from a cricketing legend who not only excelled as a player but also served as an inspiring captain. The event was graced by the presence of renowned personalities such as India's Sunil Gavaskar, Pakistan's Mudassar Nazar, New Zealand's Dayle Hadlee, and Haroon Lorgat, the former Chief Executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Additionally, members of the Emirates Cricket Board and Dubai Cricket Council, who organized the event, were also in attendance.
Witnessing Arjuna, whose powerful and elegant strokes had mesmerized cricket enthusiasts, was truly motivating. His elegant cover drives and fierce pull shots would leave spectators spellbound. Arjuna's exceptional ability to analyze the game and understand his opponents made him one of the finest captains in cricket history, leading Sri Lanka to a surprising World Cup triumph in 1996.
During his speech, while reminiscing about the day he won his first junior cricketer award, Ranatunga praised Bhatia for establishing an award that recognizes domestic cricketers. He emphasized the significance of awards, stating that they provide a significant boost and commended Bhatia for encouraging young players through such events.
Gavaskar also addressed the cricketers present and delivered an important message: "Keep raising the bar, score more runs, take more wickets, and, if you are a wicket-keeper, secure more dismissals. It is important to continuously improve in order to become a top player."
Shyam Bhatia, ensuring that only cricketing legends were involved in presenting the awards, expressed his delight in having a renowned personality bestow the honors each year. Ranatunga became the fourth World Cup-winning captain to present these awards, following the likes of Clive Lloyd, Imran Khan, and Kapil Dev. Bhatia had also increased the cash prize to Dh 26,000 for the winners in various categories.
This edition of the awards introduced the Lifetime Achievement award, which was presented to Tariq Butt, the UAE's most experienced umpire. UAE's left-arm pacer, Samiya Salim Sanghati, was honored with the Best Woman Cricketer of the Year award. Shaimon Anwar Butt, who scored 1,343 runs in A division tournaments, was recognized as the Best Batsman, while Asim Kurshid, who scored 477 runs and took 17 wickets, earned the title of Best all-rounder. Mohammad Rehan was awarded the Best Bowler prize for his 24 wickets.
Varun Totadri, Shorye Chopra, and Muaz Qaz were recognized as the Best Junior Cricketers. In the B division cricket, C.T.K. Mashood, with 20 wickets, claimed the Best Bowler award, while Prajakat Chauhan, who scored 324 runs and took 11 wickets, was honored as the Best all-rounder. Amjad Javed secured the Best Batsman award for his 312 runs. Mohammad Yousuf, Mohammad Illyas, Akbar Ali Khan, and B.M. Abdullah received the Best Umpire awards from Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, and Sharjah, respectively.
14th Shyam Bhatia award: Zaheer Abbas
Asian Bradman and stylish Zaheer Abbas honours rising stars at 14th Shyam Bhatia awards
Pakistan's legendary stylish batsman, Zaheer Abbas, presented the 14th Shyam Bhatia awards at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. Abbas, who was known as the 'Asian Bradman' due to his consistency and elegant style of play, has been idolized by many, making it truly inspiring to hear him speak. For the awardees, it was a special moment to receive their awards from Abbas, who exemplified the art of playing long innings with grace.
Many in the audience fondly remembered Abbas' graceful strokes and flawless technique. His cover drives, square cuts, and flicks off the wrists were a treat for the eyes. His batting was a masterclass on how to find gaps in the field effortlessly. Abbas has always enjoyed sharing his knowledge and experiences with aspiring youngsters. In 2015, Abbas became the President of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Budding cricketer Shorye Chopra achieved a hat-trick in the Bhatia awards, securing the Best Junior Cricketer award for the third time in succession after amassing 512 runs from two junior tournaments. Justin D'Souza won the Best Junior Cricketer award nominated by the Abu Dhabi Cricket Council, while Salah Shakeel claimed the Sharjah Cricket Council's Best Junior Cricketer award.
In Division 1, Mohammad Shafiq emerged as the best player from the Abu Dhabi Cricket Council after smashing 422 runs in four matches. Saqib Ali, who scored 395 runs and took 13 wickets, won the best player award from the Dubai Cricket Council. The best player award from the Sharjah Cricket Council went to Azam, who scored 269 runs.
In Division 2, Nazir Aziz, with 25 wickets and 342 runs, won the best player award from Ajman. Amjad Ali, with 1019 runs, won the best player award from Abu Dhabi. Saqib Ali, with 301 runs, won the best player award from Dubai, and Abdul Shakoor, with 1074 runs, won the best player award from Sharjah.
A special award for the best lady cricketer in the UAE was given to Humaira Tasneen, and umpire Akbar Ali, who officiated in 191 matches that season, also received recognition. The best umpires nominated by various councils were Zaheer Al Haq (Abu Dhabi), Syed Zargham (Ajman), Tariq Butt (Dubai), and Naveel Ismail (Sharjah).
However, due to insufficient data provided by all the councils to the Dubai Cricket Council, which organized the event, the prestigious awards for UAE Cricketer of the Year, Best Batsman, Best Bowler, and Best All-rounder could not be selected. Bhatia presented a total of Dh27,000 in prize money that year. It was also announced that cash awards totaling Dh214,000 had been presented by Bhatia over the past 13 years to encourage cricketers to give their best.
15th Shyam Bhatia award: Graeme Smith
Graeme Smith, the fearless titan of South Africa, presents 15th Shyam Bhatia awards
South Africa's legendary batsman and exceptional captain, Graeme Smith, presented the 15th Shyam Bhatia awards at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. Renowned for his ability to demolish bowling attacks, Smith played his last international match in 2014, just a year before this event.
The cricket fraternity has closely followed Smith's remarkable journey in the game, enthralled by his batting prowess. His imposing presence at the crease and his knack for challenging the opposition's bowling attack were truly stunning. He stood tall as a symbol of strength. As a captain, he was inspiring and led South Africa to great heights. Many referred to him as the fearless titan of South African cricket. The memories of his cover drives, elegant glides, and fierce pull shots were still fresh in the minds of everyone in the audience.
Smith, who took over South Africa's captaincy at the age of 22, shared his thoughts on the qualities that make a good captain. He said, "As a leader, you need a diverse range of skills. Firstly, you must bring out the best in people and be capable of making quick tactical decisions on the field. I believe it's all about the individuals in a team environment and how you can help each teammate reach their full potential. Being good with people is crucial to being a successful captain."
Smith also emphasized the importance of children playing sports, stating, "For me, it is important that kids spend time outdoors and engage in physical activities. In modern society, children face numerous challenges and distractions."
In a first for the UAE national team that participated in the 2015 ICC World Cup, their achievements were honored at the event. Shaiman Anwar, who became the first player to score a century (106) for the UAE against Ireland at the Cricket World Cup, was presented with Dh 5,000 in recognition of his outstanding performance on the international stage. Heena Harish Hotchandani was acknowledged as the country's best female cricketer and received Dh 2,000.
The outstanding players in the Division One category were Zeeshan Khan from Abu Dhabi Cricket Council, Adil Riyal from Dubai Cricket Council, and Rohan Mustafa from Sharjah Cricket Council. Interestingly, all three players were left-handers. Yodhin Punja from Abu Dhabi, Salah Shakeel from Dubai, and Ansh Tandon from Sharjah were named the best junior cricketers in the under-16 category.
Salman Faris (Sharjah Cricket Council), Swapnil Patil (Dubai Cricket Council), Ashraf Haider (Abu Dhabi), and Mohamamad Ibtisam Sait (Ajman) were recognized as the best second division players. The best umpire awards were received by Mohammad Ali (Abu Dhabi), Rameez Razzaq (Ajman), Akbar Ali (Dubai), and Iftikhar Ali (Sharjah).
16th Shyam Bhatia award: Mahela Jayawardene
Humble legend and shrewd Mahela Jayawardene gives away the 16th Shyam Bhatia awards
Sri Lanka's legendary batsman and astute captain, Mahela Jayawardene, presented the 16th Shyam Bhatia awards at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. The UAE cricket fraternity was thrilled to have the opportunity to interact closely with him during the function.
Despite his fame, Jayawardene remained humble and mingled with everyone, inspiring young cricketers to give their best. The presence of Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board and the then UAE Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, made the occasion even more special.
Sheikh Nahyan received a resounding applause when he quoted a line from Donald Bradman's book 'Art of Cricket' when he said, "May cricket continue to flourish and spread its wings. The world can only be richer for it."
Jayawardene's ability to craft an innings has always been a delight to watch. His strokes were executed with impeccable timing, whether it was his wristy flick or elegant cover drive. As a leader, he possessed the ability to unite his team and lead them to great heights. Jayawardene's patience at the crease was exceptional, as he could bat for hours without displaying any signs of stress or fatigue.
During the Bhatia awards, when he was asked about how he developed such qualities, his response was, "I believe one must truly enjoy playing cricket. If you have a genuine love for the game, you will excel as a cricketer. Performance should not be a burden. It's all about enjoyment, and as long as you are enjoying the game, you will perform well." Jayawardene has always displayed excellent qualities as a cricketer and he went to talk about how he earned respect from all. He noted, "Respect has nothing to do with having confrontations with opposing players or passing remarks. It's about competing on the field with the bat and ball. That's what earns you respect."
Addressing the gathering, Shyam Bhatia remarked, "It's a special day for cricket, with Sheikh Nahyan gracing the awards function for the first time, and having Jayawardene, the man who was named the best captain by the ICC in 2006 and the best Test player in 2007."
UAE all-rounder Rohan Mustafa won the prestigious award of best cricketer from Division One, representing Dubai Cricket Council while Rameez Shehzad won the best player from Abu Cricket Council and Amjad Ali from Sharjah Cricket Council. Subha Venkatraman, who guided UAE to victories in the Gulf Cup in 2014 and 2015 bagging the best batswoman award, received the the best woman cricketer of the year award.
Best players in Division Two were Mohammad Fazil (Dubai), Rizwan Amant (Abu Dhabi), Salman Babar (Ajman) and Fayyaz Ahmad (Sharjah). The best junior cricketer award was won by Fahad Nawaz (Dubai), Justin D’Souza (Abu Dhabi) and Niel Lobo (Sharjah). The best umpires award went to Sachin Solanki (Dubai), Rabiul Hoque (Abu Dhabi), Shahid Tanveer (Ajman) and Asif Iqbal (Sharjah).
17th Shyam Bhatia award: Viv Richards
‘King Viv’ Richards elevates Shyam Bhatia awards 17th edition with his aura
Sir Viv Richards added to the glitter and glamour of the Shyam Bhatia awards as he graciously presented the 17th edition at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. Affectionately known as "King Viv," his presence thrilled everyone in attendance. His aura commanded awe, and the awardees were elated to receive their honors from one of the greatest batsmen and a true master blaster.
Richards's presence transported everyone back in time. With admiration, they recalled his swagger and the iconic image of him walking to the crease with a piece of chewing gum in his mouth. He decimated bowling attacks with his sheer power and impeccable timing. He was a symbol of dominance, treating the cricket ball as something to be smashed. The memories of his thunderous pull shots, hooks, and scorching drives remained vivid in everyone's minds. As the captain of the West Indies, he led with authority and aggression, establishing them as the world's most feared team.
Addressing the gathering, Richards stunned everyone with a revelation: "To a degree, I was a Mickey Mouse batsman, but it was my mental strength that made me who I am." He also explained why he accepted Shyam Bhatia's invitation to present the awards. He said, "We live in an environment where kids often go astray, so when someone takes the time to create an environment where kids can look to achieve their potential, whether through modern-day players or players from the past (presenting awards), it should be appreciated. I always appreciated seeing kids because I believe they need some direction. Bhatia has provided that direction."
Expressing gratitude to Viv Richards, Shyam Bhatia stated, "Having a cricketer known as the King present the awards is a great honor. It will inspire even future generations through those who received the award from the King among cricketers."
The Master of Ceremony, television presenter, and commentator Gautam Bhimani enthralled the audience, with Ghazi Madani, Director of Dubai Sports Council, also in attendance.
During the event, Richards presented his West Indies team blazer to the museum, stating, "When I visited the Bhatia museum on my last trip to the UAE, I was deeply impressed by what I saw. It almost brought tears to my eyes. I could see a wide variety of individuals, not just current cricketers or those I played with, but individuals I’ve admired over the years. The rich history of the sport on display was special because I always believed that we are all part of a relay. We pass the baton, regardless of our individual achievements, and move on. That day, I made a serious commitment that whenever the awards were held again here, I would be present."
Junior cricketers Jonathan Figgy from Abu Dhabi Cricket Council (ADCC), Zuhaib Zubair of Sharjah Cricket Council (SCC), and DCC's Aryan Lakra and Krishna Lakhani were ecstatic to receive their awards from Richards.
Sapandeep Singh of Sharjah Cricket Council and Mohammad Jameel of ADCC received the top prizes for best batsmen in Division A. UAE women's team captain Humaira Tasneen and Nisha Ali won the best women cricketers award. In Division B, P Prakash of Dubai Cricket Council, Yasir Ali of Sharjah Cricket Council, Wajahat Shahzad of Ajman Cricket Council, and Zaheer Maqsood of Abu Dhabi Cricket Council claimed the top awards. The best umpire awards were given to Sachin Solanki of Dubai Cricket Council, Hamid Mukhtar of Sharjah Cricket Council, Kamran Riaz of Ajman Cricket Council, and Rizwan Shah from Abu Dhabi Cricket Council.
18th Shyam Bhatia award: Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble twirls 18th Shyam Bhatia awards into a frenzy with his presence
Indian leg spinner Anil Kumble, who had once taken all ten wickets in an innings, presented the 18th Shyam Bhatia awards at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. It was a special moment for those who excelled in UAE's domestic cricket to receive the award from this skilled bowler who has broken numerous records.
Kumble's mastery of spin bowling was truly remarkable. Every year since his debut for India in 1990, he improved his skills, adding more guile to his bowling. His unique style made it difficult for batsmen to play against him. He relied on intelligence rather than excessive turn to take wickets. As the captain of the Indian team, he displayed his intelligence and profound understanding of the game, contributing to many memorable victories for his country. He became a role model by playing the game in the right spirit and showcasing immense sportsmanship. Kumble remains an ambassador of the game, and his career serves as inspiration for future generations.
During the ceremony, Kumble shared anecdotes, including the match where he had taken all the 10 wickets against Pakistan in 1999 in New Delhi and the interesting happenings surrounding it. Kumble recalled Sachin Tendulkar acting as a lucky charm that day when he would take his sweater from his hand and hand it over to the umpire. And every time Tendulkar did that, Kumble would take a wicket! Kumble also talked about the match against the West Indies in 2002 where he had bowled with a bandaged jaw.
Abdulrehman Bukhatir was bestowed with the Lifetime Achievement award, which was accepted on his behalf by his son, Waleed Bukhatir. Waleed highlighted the significance of the Sharjah Cricket Stadium as one of the most sought-after cricket venues in the UAE. He also mentioned his father's contribution to promoting a cricket stadium in Tangiers, Morocco, which enabled cricket to be played in Africa as well. The presence of respected cricket writer Mike Coward added to the event's prestige.
Expressing gratitude to Shyam Bhatia for initiating the award, Abdulrehman Falaknaz, chairman of the Dubai Cricket Council, emphasized the UAE's achievements in cricket as being the only Arab country to participate in the World Cup twice. He further stated that the Emirates Cricket Board is actively involved in the game's development in the region. He believed that the awards, presented by personalities like Anil Kumble, would inspire budding stars to strive for further excellence.
Kumble presented the awards to the best junior cricketers Aaryan Lakra (Dubai Cricket Council), Anwer Khan (Abu Dhabi Cricket Council), Ansh Tandon (Sharjah Cricket Council), and Shoun Roger (Ajman Cricket Council).
The best A division cricketers were Adnan Mufti (Dubai Cricket Council), Sayed Maqsood (Abu Dhabi Cricket Council), and Rohan Mustafa (Sharjah Cricket Council). In the B division, the best cricketers were Abid Chaudhry (Dubai Cricket Council), Sunith Sampath (Abu Dhabi Cricket Council), and Babar Ghazanfar (Ajman Cricket Council).
Nisha Ali won the award for the best woman cricketer of the year. The best umpires were Shiju Sam (Dubai Cricket Council), Mohammad Wahid Butt (Abu Dhabi Cricket Council), Shabbir Ali (Sharjah Cricket Council), and Irfan Khan (Ajman Cricket Council). Special awards were given to the Emerging Champions of the Inter State ECB events like the Dubai Cricket Council Under 16 and Dubai Cricket Council Under 19 tournaments.
19th Shyam Bhatia award: Kumar Sangakkara
Kumar Sangakkara enlivens 19th Shyam Bhatia awards with inspiring message
Kumar Sangakkara, the prolific batsman and former skipper of Sri Lanka, was the honored guest at the 19th Shyam Bhatia awards held at the Shyam Bhatia Cricket Museum in Dubai. Sangakkara's remarkable feat of scoring four consecutive centuries in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup lingered in the minds of all those present at the function. Many attendees regarded him as a role model, given his elegant batting, adept wicketkeeping, and astute captaincy has inspired countless individuals.
Saeed Hareb, secretary general of the Dubai Sports Council, graced the occasion and announced that every effort would be made, with the support of the Dubai Sports Council and the Dubai government, to allocate a space for the museum to cater to visiting tourists. During the event, Hareb presented Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, chairman of the DCC, with the Lifetime Achievement award.
Sangakkara's elegance and resilience have earned him numerous admirers. His graceful footwork and ability to find gaps in the field have always been a treat to watch. His cover drives were elegant, his pull shots executed to perfection, and his flicks exquisite. As a wicketkeeper, he amazed everyone with his agility, taking flying catches and executing flashy stumpings. A voracious reader, he stood out as one of the most articulate captains in world cricket and later became one of the finest commentators.
Addressing the gathering, Sangakkara expressed his pleasure in attending the 19th Shyam Bhatia UAE cricket awards. He remarked, "It is such a pleasure to be here and witness this wonderful initiative taken by Mr. Bhatia, where so many budding cricketers are present. Cricket is a great game, and one should play with passion while adhering to the principles of fair play and human values." He further shared his insights on playing the game, saying, "Play hard but play fair. How you manage your game is more important on and off the field. Focus on the values you develop during your early days in cricket. My best wishes to the winners and to all the budding cricketers out there."
Bhatia, delighted to see the awards approaching two decades, expressed his joy, stating, "The Annual Awards provide an opportunity to witness local cricketers being recognized by celebrity cricketers. Today, we have Kumar Sangakkara here, and seeing the budding cricketers around him brings me immense happiness. We will continue to support and encourage our budding cricketers in the UAE. My museum and these awards are my life, and I will continue to do my best to serve my love for the game of cricket."
In the junior category, Mohammad Faraazuddin from Ajman received the award for the best under-19 cricketer while Ansh Tandon was recognized as the best junior player from Sharjah. Osama Hussain won the best player award from Abu Dhabi. Kavisha Kumari was named the woman cricketer of the year. Varun Nayanar, who recently secured a spot in the India Under-19 team, received the DCC's outstanding performer of the year award. Ahsan Riaz was honored as Abu Dhabi's senior player award winner.