We’re delighted to bring you the thoughts and photos of our very own Billy as he travelled to Dubai to watch his beloved Pakistan take on South Africa earlier this month…

“Hi, just to introduce myself, my name is Billy and I’ve been a die hard fan of Pakistan cricket since as far back as I can remember. I’ve always wanted to go and watch Pakistan play outside of Pakistan or the UK but never really got the chance to go because I always thought it would be too difficult to organise and go alone. But ever since I came into contact with Mr Pakistan before the ICC Champions Trophy 2013, he and the rest of the Stani Army have been a great help with advice and putting me through to friends of theirs in UAE who helped me with any information about the tickets/ground etc. So a big thanks to Mr Arslan who was the man in UAE to help me out with any questions I had.

I have heard many story’s about the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, so come the day of the 2nd ODI I couldn’t wait to leave my hotel and get inside this magnificent looking stadium. Arriving at the stadium I got stuck in traffic near my hotel so missed the first 10 overs. Once I got out the taxi and made my way to the ticket counter I was surprised to still see so many Pakistan fans trying to get inside the ground, and it was good to see the upset of the 1st ODI didn’t stop our fans from giving it a miss.

Billy’s photos from the Pakistan v South Africa 2nd ODI at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium:

By the time I took my seat we were two down but building a good partnership. Unfortunately, towards the end of our innings we had a collapse that we have at times become used to now but still everyone around the ground believed if we can get them 2 down in the early overs the pressure might get to South Africa at the end. And that’s exactly what happened. In the end, all our bowlers bowled great and nobody gave anything away. The love and support the Pakistan team gets everywhere it goes around the world from its fans is something I believe nobody else can get from its own fans.

During the South Africa innings I got speaking to quite a few people in my stand and told them about Stani Army, what we stand for, and how it is bringing all Pakistan fans together to support our team at home and away.

This was my first write up about a game I went to so I hope it is not too bad. Again, I would like to say a big thank you to Mr Pakistan and Mr Arslan in UAE and the rest of the Stani Army. It was great to again represent Stani Army and look forward to being part of this Army for a long time.”

Billy and the rest of the Stani Army at Sky Sports’ Cricket AM show:

Where have you been to watch your team Pakistan play? Would you like to share your experiences and photos from the games? Why not get in touch with us here and have your thoughts published on http://www.staniarmy.com and share your passion for Pakistan cricket with fellow Stanis!?

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