On Saturday, 17th August 2024, the Majlis Ansarullah UK National Cricket Tournament took place at the Barn Elms Sports Centre in Barnes, with some morning matches also held at Kimber Re, Wandsworth. Organized by the National Zahanat Wa Sehat e Jismani, this annual cricket event brought together teams and players from across the UK for a day of competitive and engaging cricket.

Tournament Overview

The tournament featured ten registered teams, but seven teams participated in the event: Baitul Futuh, Masroor, Nasir, Fazl, Muqami, Tahir, and Bashir. A total of 13 matches were played throughout the day, following a structured format that divided the teams into two groups for a round-robin stage. Teams were seeded based on previous tournament performances, with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals and the bottom two competing in a plate competition.

Match Details and Highlights

The tournament was packed with excitement, featuring thrilling matches that showcased impressive skills and competitive spirit. For detailed scores, match schedules, and player statistics, you can visit the official tournament page here.

Notable Performances:

  • Fazl Region emerged victorious, winning the tournament with strong performances throughout.
  • Muqami Region finished as runners-up, displaying great determination.
  • Special awards in the final included:
    • Best Batsman: Usman Ahmad (Fazl Region)
    • Best Bowler: Shahzad Mir (Fazl Region)
  • The plate competition saw Bashir Region win, with Baitul Futuh as runners-up.

Audience and Engagement

The tournament created a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for players and spectators alike. Attendees enjoyed a Biryani lunch and a special 4 pm treat of ice-cold Mango Lassi with cake, adding a festive touch to the day. The matches and event updates were covered on the official website, keeping the wider community engaged.

Despite the overall success of the tournament, the event did face some challenges. Notably, two regions had to withdraw on the day of the tournament, affecting the schedule and logistics. However, the organizing team managed to adapt and ensure a smooth continuation of the matches.

Conclusion

The Majlis Ansarullah UK National Cricket Tournament 2024 was a day of outstanding cricket, community spirit, and camaraderie. Fazl Region’s victory and the exceptional performances of individual players highlighted the high standard of play. The event successfully brought together players, families, and cricket enthusiasts, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.