Abu Dhabi tour delayed

 

Unfortunately, the planned Lashings World XI tour to Abu Dhabi will be taking place somewhat later than hoped, as it was announced that it has been delayed until February 2008.

 

Andy Elliott, spokesman for the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi, where the tournament is to be held, had this to say: "Obviously we are a little disappointed to postpone the event, but we felt it was appropriate given that certain essential details were not quite where we wanted them to be. Whilst the delay is regrettable it will give us valuable time to ensure the success of the event in February 2008."

 

Lashings World XI Chairman David Folb agreed with this sentiment, saying "We fully understand and endorse the Hotel's decision to delay the event. Both parties feel this will only serve to guarantee the event's success when we come out to Abu Dhabi in February next year. The partnership between Lashings World XI - the "Harlem Globetrotters" of the cricketing world with a star-studded team - and the majesty of the location and its beautiful landscaped grounds make this a mouth-watering sporting proposition, whenever it happens."

 

Folb also indicated that at least part of the reason for the postponement was a total lack of availability of business class flights to Abu Dhabi around October. "It's a disappointment to have to postpone the tournament over something beyond our control, but the contracts we have stipulate that business class tickets must be provided and they're simply not available for that time" said Folb.

 

Andy Elliott closed by saying "This is an embryonic event, but one which we believe has wide, varied and importantly long term marketing opportunities. As an event we see this as the founding of Abu Dhabi's equivalent to the ‘Dubai Rugby 7's'. Potentially a twice-yearly event, the Emirates Palace Hotel is hoping to ensure its guests, Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE/Gulf community are able to benefit from the unique opportunity we have to host such a festival".

 

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