United Arab Emirates Team for T20 World Cup 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured the final berth in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, becoming the 20th confirmed team after a dominant performance in the Asia‑EAP Qualifier. This achievement marks a proud moment for UAE cricket and its growing global ambitions.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026, hosted across India and Sri Lanka. UAE competes in Group D, where every game will test the team’s skill and resolve.

UAE at T20 World Cup 2026: Quick Overview

UAE arrives in the T20 World Cup with confidence from its qualification success. The squad combines experienced internationals with exciting rising talent. The leadership emphasises fearless batting and strategic bowling plans.

Group D includes strong teams such as New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, and Canada, making every match demanding and important.

UAE Squad for T20 World Cup 2026

UAE has named a competitive squad led by Muhammad Waseem. The selection blends aggressive batting, tactical spin, and varied bowling options to adapt across different conditions in India.

UAE Squad (T20 World Cup 2026):

• Muhammad Waseem (c) – Captain & Top‑Order Batter
• Alishan Sharafu – Opening Batter
• Aryansh Sharma (wk) – Wicketkeeper‑Batter
• Asif Khan – Middle‑Order Batter
• Dhruv Parashar – All‑Rounder
• Ethan D’Souza – Middle‑Order Batter
• Haider Ali – Batter
• Harshit Kaushik – All‑Rounder
• Junaid Siddique – Fast Bowler
• Matiullah Khan – Fast Bowler
• Muhammad Farooq – Bowler
• Muhammad Jawadullah – Bowler
• Muhammad Zohaib – All‑Rounder
• Rohid Khan – Spinner
• Simranjeet Singh – Left‑Arm Spinner

This squad showcases UAE’s depth and flexibility in batting and bowling roles.

UAE Fixtures in Group Stage – T20 World Cup 2026

UAE’s group matches are scheduled against diverse opponents in key Indian venues:

• February 10 – New Zealand vs UAE – Chennai
• February 13 – Canada vs UAE – Delhi
• February 16 – Afghanistan vs UAE – Delhi
• February 18 – South Africa vs UAE – Delhi

These fixtures provide UAE with opportunities to compete against established sides and showcase its growing T20 capabilities.

Key Players to Watch for UAE

UAE’s performance depends on key players who can shift momentum:

• Muhammad Waseem – Captain and dynamic top‑order batter
• Alishan Sharafu – Aggressive opening presence
• Aryansh Sharma – Wicketkeeper with batting depth
• Dhruv Parashar – All‑round contributor
• Simranjeet Singh – Left‑arm spin threat

These players provide balance and flexibility to the team’s core strategies.

UAE’s Strengths in T20 World Cup 2026

UAE’s key strengths include its balanced batting order and diverse bowling options. The top and middle order can score quickly and rotate strike, while spin and pace bowlers add strategic depth. UAE’s experience from qualifiers and international series shapes its ability to compete under pressure.

The team’s fearless approach and adaptability make it a tough opponent for higher‑ranked sides.

What UAE Needs to Advance

To progress from Group D, UAE must play consistently in all phases. Early partnerships will build momentum. Tight bowling in middle overs can control scoring rates. Winning one or two key matches and maintaining a competitive net run rate will be vital for moving to the Super 8s.

Sharp fielding and clear tactical plans can further enhance UAE’s chances on the world stage.