As excitement builds ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, particularly for the India vs. Pakistan match in Dubai, Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group and affectionately known as Mr. Cricket UAE, has launched a special initiative to give back to the community.
In celebration of the cricketing event, Anis Sajan is generously distributing 400 match tickets to blue-collar workers in the UAE as part of Danube Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.
The tickets, distributed for four key matches—100 tickets per match—will allow these passionate cricket fans to witness some of the biggest games of the tournament.
Lucky winners
The selection process was conducted through a lucky draw, ensuring equal opportunity for all interested workers. Since cricket holds a special place in the hearts of workers from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India, these nationalities were prioritized while maintaining diverse representation. Workers who were eager to witness the matches were invited to submit their names, and a random draw determined the final selection.
The distribution was strategically planned to align with some of the most anticipated matches, including Bangladesh vs. India on the 20th, India vs. Pakistan on the 23rd, India vs. New Zealand on March 2nd, and the semi-final on March 4th.
‘Cricket is more than just a sport for South Asian workers’
Anis Sajan expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “Cricket is more than just a sport; it is an emotion that unites people across borders. Many of our blue-collar workers are devoted cricket fans, but the high ticket prices and overwhelming demand make attending a live match a distant dream for them. They work tirelessly to support our company, and this initiative is my way of giving back. Watching their cricketing idols live in action will be an unforgettable experience. My goal is simple: to bring joy and show appreciation for their dedication.”
He further added, “I wish I could have sent my entire team, but I was able to manage only 400. This was the maximum I could accommodate.”
Since it’s a 50-over match, ensuring the workers’ comfort throughout the day has been a key priority. As they are not allowed to bring food or water into the stadium, Danube Group has arranged for early lunch food packets to be distributed on the bus ride to the venue.
During match breaks, workers will receive coupons to purchase snacks and water from the stadium stores. After the match, which is expected to end between 8:30 to 9:00 PM or later, food packets will once again be provided for their journey back home, ensuring they are well taken care of throughout the experience.
For those who missed the opportunity to watch the match at the stadium, Mr Cricket UAE will host a special screening at the warehouse, allowing them to enjoy the action together in a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Anis Sajan, a passionate cricket enthusiast, has been actively involved in the sport for years, and through this initiative, he hopes to share the thrill of world-class cricket with those who may not typically have access to such events.
As an influential figure in the UAE’s cricket community, Anis is using his platform to make this exciting tournament more accessible to the workers who are vital to the country’s success.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
