Yorkshire set to defend Sharjah title

Yorkshire are the first county to confirm they will be returning to the UAE to take part in the pre-season Pro Arch Trophy, a tournament they won in 2008.

The format of the competition will change in 2009 to include eight teams playing in two groups of four. The winners of each group will contest the final while the other teams will play the team that finished in the same position in the other group to decide their final standing.

Although the other teams are yet to be confirmed, it is reported that Middlesex, Essex, Sussex and Surrey will join the UAE national side as well as an Emirates All-Star XI in Sharjah for the tournament which takes place between March 17 and 25.

"We are looking forward to spending another pre-season in the UAE and I'm sure the team will be keen to defend their Pro Arch title," Yorkshire chief executive, Stewart Regan, said. "Last season's successful tour provided us with an exceptional foundation to take into the domestic season. The practice facilities and guaranteed weather make it an excellent place to get ready for the summer ahead and our one-day performances in particular definitely benefited from our Abu Dhabi preparation in 2008."