Skipper Muhammad Waseem has emphasized unity within the UAE cricket team, stating that passports are left at the door, reflecting a commitment to a collective national identity above individual heritage. The UAE T20 World Cup squad comprises players with diverse backgrounds, with eight members born in Pakistan or having Pakistani roots, while another eight trace their lineage to India. This cultural blend is further enhanced in the support staff, with Indian coach Lalchand Rajput collaborating alongside former Pakistani all-rounder Yasir Arafat.
Despite the backdrop of political tensions, notably Pakistan’s decision to boycott their group match against India, Waseem asserts that these issues have not affected team dynamics. “In this team, there is no India or Pakistan divide. We are all representing the UAE, and we are proud of it. We play together, we eat together, and we spend a lot of time together. There is nothing like India or Pakistan in our team,” Waseem stated ahead of their match against New Zealand.
As the UAE prepares for their third T20 World Cup campaign, starting with a match against New Zealand at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, the team hopes to make a mark. The tournament group also includes heavyweights like South Africa, Afghanistan, and Canada. Historically, the UAE has faced challenges in this arena, securing only one victory across their previous two World Cup participations and missing out entirely on the last edition.
Nonetheless, this associate nation is ready to challenge the odds. Their unique composition, influenced by the cricketing cultures of the subcontinent, is mirrored in teams from Oman, Canada, the USA, and the Netherlands, where many players also share dual citizenship or maintain ties to their countries of origin. With a spirit of camaraderie and a shared goal, Waseem and his team are set to embrace this tournament with optimism and determination, aiming to capture the hearts of fans and make significant strides in their World Cup journey.