Nottinghamshire’s Paul Franks has every reason to be excited about the start of the ICC Cricket World Cup. The all-rounder, captain of the county’s second team, is a member of the United Arab Emirates’ coaching staff as they prepare for their second appearance at the event.
Franks, a former England One Day International, has much to offer the young UAE players but admits it’s a two-way process.
“I’m finding it really enjoyable,” he said.
“I am grateful for this experience. It’s an exciting challenge and I’m learning a lot from it.”
The liaison came about after the Notts man had been invited to bring his wealth of experience to a high performance training camp in November.
“I guess I was just fortunate that I was in the right place at the right time,” he said.
“I must have made a good impression during that training camp.”
The UAE will be looking to impress at CWC15, after qualifying along with fellow Associate nations Ireland, Scotland and Afghanistan.
Drawn in Pool B, they can look forward to a schedule which has paired them with Zimbabwe, Ireland, South Africa, India, Pakistan and the West Indies.
“The players, in particular, are looking forward to facing many of their heroes in the India and Pakistan sides,” revealed Franks.
He believes his side are ready to play their part in the showpiece event.
“The preparation has been very thorough and we’ve had the use of some excellent practice facilities in both Napier and Melbourne.”
They say ‘it takes one to know one’ and the veteran of 215 first class and 184 one-day matches says he’s looking forward to seeing how one of the UAE’s major talents performs.
“I’ve been impressed with Mohammed Naveed,” said the 36-year old.
“He’s a fast-bowling all-rounder and I’m really keen to see how he goes once the competition starts.”
The UAE have a couple of warm-up matches to play before their first game in Pool B, against the Zimbabweans, on 19th February, in Nelson, New Zealand.
On Friday they face Afghanistan at the Junction Oval in Melbourne but before that, on Wednesday, there is a very important fixture on the calendar.
UAE will play joint-hosts Australia, in a day / night match at the world famous MCG. The tournament favourites will be looking to finalise their plans ahead of their match with England on Saturday, with captain Michael Clarke expected to make his return from injury, attempting to prove his fitness for the weeks that lie ahead.
Clarke joins the likes of Aaron Finch, David Warner, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell in a powerful-looking Australian top order.
“It will be a massive eye-opener for our players,” said Franks.
“Any game at the MCG is very special though.”
Important as the practice matches are, Franks can’t wait for the real thing.
“I’m very excited for the start of the competition and looking forward to seeing some really great cricket.”
Trent Bridge hosts the fourth Royal London One-Day International between England and New Zealand on Wednesday 17 June. Don't miss the chance to take in what promises to be an absorbing contest and secure your seat now.