Dubai has made an exciting announcement in the world of sports. The Baseball United league, based in Dubai, has revealed the Mumbai Cobras as its first franchise representing the Middle East and South Asia. This marks a significant milestone for baseball in the region.
In November, the Dubai International Stadium will be the venue for Baseball United showcase tournament, featuring four competing teams. Additionally, three more teams will be unveiled in the upcoming weeks, making it a total of seven teams participating in the league.
Baseball United, established in 2022, aims to introduce baseball as a new and captivating sport for the Middle East and South Asia. With nearly two billion people residing in India, Pakistan, and the Middle East, where cricket holds a special place, Baseball United sees an incredible opportunity to capture the interest of cricket enthusiasts and introduce them to the excitement, entertainment, and cultural relevance of baseball.
The league boasts a roster of over 200 professional players from more than 30 countries. Out of these, 64 players will be selected for the four teams competing in the upcoming season scheduled for 2024.
While the league will feature American players, specific details regarding their names, ages, and experience levels have not yet been disclosed. Kash Shaikh, the president and CEO of Baseball United, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, stating that baseball, with its rich history and allure, is one of the few American sports yet to make its mark in this part of the world.
Dubai Baseball United has garnered support from two renowned figures in the sport. Mariano Rivera, a celebrated hall of famer who spent 19 seasons with the iconic New York Yankees, and a beloved 12-time Major League Baseball all-star, along with a popular Cincinnati Reds player, have invested in the league.
Furthermore, Dubai aims to solidify its position as a global sporting hub in the next decade. With the introduction of more training camps, international events, and private sector sports initiatives, the city looks to attract even more sports enthusiasts and establish itself as a premier destination for sporting events.
The Dubai-based Baseball United league partnership with the Mumbai Cobras franchise marks a remarkable step forward in bringing baseball to the Middle East and South Asia, offering a new and thrilling experience to fans and players alike.