Dubai, UAE – The DP World ILT20 Schools Cup 2024 is set to culminate in a thrilling final, with Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi taking on Gems Modern Academy, Dubai on Saturday, November 16 at the ICC Academy. Conceptualized to promote the DP World ILT20, strengthen community ties through cricket, and provide aspiring cricketers valuable exposure, the tournament saw participation from 32 school teams across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
Earlier this week, Cambridge High School Abu Dhabi secured their place in the final with a clinical 43-run victory over The Winchester School. Batting first, Cambridge High School posted a total of 169/9 in 20 overs, thanks to impressive half-century performances from openers Yayin Kiran Rai (84 runs) and Prithvi Madhu (50 runs), who shared a massive 137-run partnership. Despite strong bowling efforts from Angad Nehru (three wickets) and Nirbhav Vaswani (two wickets), Cambridge’s innings was well-restricted.
In the second innings, Yayin Kiran Rai continued his excellent form by taking five wickets for just 14 runs, while Aadhyeya Aithal secured three wickets, leading to The Winchester School being bowled out for 126/10 in 19.3 overs.
On Friday, Gems Modern Academy, Dubai, claimed a dominant seven-wicket victory against DIA, Emirates Hills. Electing to bowl first, Gems Modern Academy restricted DIA, Emirates Hills to 97/10 in 17 overs, with Aryan Thapar’s exceptional four-wicket haul and contributions from Adhvait Sharma and Parin Sethi (two wickets each). Chasing the target, Gems Modern Academy reached their goal in 11.1 overs, powered by Mahatru Hariharan’s 33-ball 54 runs and Jeet Shah’s brisk 18 runs.
The eagerly anticipated final will also mark the opening day of the DP World ILT20 Junior Cricket Festival, a two-day event celebrating youth cricket. On Saturday, November 16, the boys’ festival will feature the DP World ILT20 Schools Cup 2024 final, offering visitors a chance to cheer on young cricketing talents. The festival promises a lively atmosphere with cricket action, food stalls, games, and activities for all ages. The girls’ festival will take place on Sunday, November 17, continuing the spirit of cricket and community.