Now, 19 years on from that debut World Cup, the UAE take to the field for the first game of their second World Cup campaign, seeking to add to their sole tournament victory, achieved against the Netherlands back in 1996.

Image source, Getty Images

In their first match of their debut World Cup in 1996, one United Arab Emirates player slightly underestimated the quality of their South African opponents.

With his team struggling at 68-6, Sultan Zarawani walked to the wicket to face one of the world's fastest bowlers, Allan Donald, without a helmet.

Donald bowled a bouncer with his first delivery, but Zarawani wasn't able to get out of the way and took a blow to his sun-hatted head. He was out soon after, as the UAE slumped to a 169-run defeat in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Bit of a false start with the toss which is a new one on me but Zimbabwe win it and will bowl first.

The Saxton Oval is of course the scene of Ireland's epic victory over the West Indies. It's a small ground as well as being stunning visually and both teams scored over 300. We're ready for the toss.

Image source, Getty Images

We're back at the beautiful Saxton Oval in Nelson on the south island in New Zealand. This tournament will surely do wonders for the New Zealand tourist board, I know this ground is certainly on my list. A valid passport is something of a essential first however.

Mr Agnew rates Adelaide as his "prettiest" international ground, what's yours? We can widen it to domestic grounds too if you like, mainly so I can crowbar my personal favourite, Arundel Castle. Send in your thoughts to #bbccricket or text us on 81111 (UK).

Hello? Anybody there? I certainly hope so. Ok now this is not England v Australia or India-Pakistan but they were not great matches last time out were they? Two minnows scrapping it out could produce a midweek classic for us. * Welcome to our coverage of Zimbabwe against the UAE in Pool B.

* But don't quote me on that.