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UAE Cricket: From Minnows to Contenders

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. 2/08/uae-cricket-from-minnows-to-contenders.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 9:07 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, INDIA

Dubai, UAE - February 8th, 2026 - When Vikram Rathore took the reins as head coach of the United Arab Emirates national cricket team, many observers viewed it as a temporary measure, a safe pair of hands to steady the ship. However, as the T20 World Cup draws near, it's becoming increasingly clear that Rathore is building something far more substantial than a stopgap solution. He's forging a team determined to shed the 'minnow' label and earn genuine respect on the global cricketing stage.

Speaking exclusively to The Straits Times last week, Rathore was unequivocal in his ambition: "We are not here to be a joke. We are here to compete, to challenge, and to unequivocally demonstrate what UAE cricket is all about." This isn't mere bravado; it's a reflection of the palpable shift in mindset and performance within the UAE squad.

For years, the UAE has been steadily climbing the ranks in Associate cricket, often flashing potential but lacking the consistency to truly threaten the established powerhouses. Rathore's appointment, leveraging his extensive experience as a former India international and, crucially, a long-serving batting coach for the Indian national team, appears to be the catalyst for that final push.

Beyond technical skills, Rathore has prioritized a holistic approach to team development. A significant focus has been placed on enhancing the squad's physical conditioning, sharpening their tactical understanding of the game, and - perhaps most importantly - cultivating mental fortitude. "The boys have been working incredibly hard," Rathore confirmed. "They are genuinely hungry to prove themselves, to defy expectations, and to showcase their capabilities to the world."

That hunger is fueled by a burgeoning talent pool. The UAE batting lineup is spearheaded by captain Muhammad Waseem, a dynamic and aggressive opener, and the elegant Chirag Suri. Rohan Mustafa provides further explosive power in the middle order, offering a diverse range of attacking options. Recent performances in domestic tournaments and preparatory matches indicate a significant improvement in the team's ability to consistently post competitive totals.

The bowling attack has also undergone a marked transformation. While historically reliant on spin, the UAE now boasts a more balanced attack with emerging pace bowlers complementing the seasoned slow bowlers. This added variety makes them a more challenging proposition for opposing batsmen and allows Rathore to adapt his strategy based on pitch conditions and opposition strengths.

The road ahead is undeniably challenging. UAE finds itself in a demanding Group alongside cricketing giants England and Australia, as well as rising Associates Namibia and Scotland. This is a group where every match will be a battle, and progress to the Super 8 stage will require a monumental effort.

"We know it will be tough. Facing England and Australia will be a huge test of our skills and temperament," Rathore conceded. "But we are not afraid of a challenge. We're going to go out there and give it our absolute best shot in every game."

However, Rathore's vision extends beyond simply winning matches. He wants to fundamentally alter the perception of UAE cricket on the international stage. "We want to earn the respect of the other teams and the fans," he stated firmly. "We want to demonstrate to the world that UAE cricket is not a fleeting presence, but a force to be reckoned with, here to stay and compete consistently at the highest level."

The team is currently deep in the final stages of preparation, diligently working through a rigorous schedule of warm-up matches designed to fine-tune their skills and build team cohesion. These matches provide a crucial opportunity to experiment with different combinations and identify the optimal playing XI for the opening game of the tournament. The atmosphere within the camp is described as positive and focused, with a clear sense of unity and purpose.

The upcoming T20 World Cup represents more than just a tournament for the UAE; it's a platform to showcase the progress made under Rathore's leadership and to inspire a new generation of Emirati cricketers. Whether they can upset the established order remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they will be a team playing with pride, passion, and a burning desire to prove their worth on the world stage.