Sat Jan 31 05:50:00 UTC 2026: ### UAE Names Squad for T20 World Cup, Waseem to Captain

The Story:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to commence next month. Muhammad Waseem will captain the team, which secured its spot in the tournament following a victory against Japan at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier in Oman. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, aiming to improve upon their previous group stage finishes in 2014 and 2022.

Key Points:

  • Muhammad Waseem will captain the UAE squad.
  • Lalchand Rajput serves as head coach, with Yasir Arafat as fast bowling coach and Stanley Chioza as fielding coach.
  • The UAE will play a two-match T20I series against Ireland before the World Cup.
  • Warm-up fixtures are scheduled against Nepal (February 3) and Italy (February 6).
  • The UAE begins its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on February 10 in Chennai.
  • They are in Group D alongside Canada, Afghanistan, and South Africa.
  • Dhruv Parashar has been recalled to the squad.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UAE is investing in experienced coaching staff to support the team’s performance.
  • Warm-up matches are crucial for acclimatizing the team and fine-tuning strategies before the tournament.
  • The squad selection reflects a balance between seasoned players and fresh talent.
  • Group D presents a competitive challenge for the UAE, requiring them to perform at their best.

Impact Analysis:

The UAE’s participation in the T20 World Cup provides a platform for the nation to further develop its cricketing program. Strong performances in the tournament could attract more investment in the sport within the UAE, potentially leading to increased grassroots participation and the emergence of future generations of cricketers. Furthermore, success on the global stage can enhance the UAE’s reputation as a competitive cricketing nation. The recall of Dhruv Parashar, noted in the historical context, suggests a strategic decision to bolster the squad with potentially valuable experience or skill set, indicating long-term planning and investment into the team’s composition.

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