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UAE T20 World Cup 2026 Team Preview: Squad, SWOT Analysis & Probable Playing 11

UAE T20 World Cup 2026 Team Preview: Squad, SWOT Analysis & Probable Playing 11

The UAE return to the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2022, bringing a new generation of cricketers alongside experienced campaigners.

Captain Muhammad Waseem shoulders much of the batting responsibility as the Emirates' all-time leading T20I run-scorer and most-capped player.

Placed in the "Group of Death" — Group D alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, and Canada.

UAE Full Squad

Muhammad Waseem (c), Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma, Dhruv Parashar, Haider Ali, Harshit Kaushik, Junaid Siddique, Mayank Kumar, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Zohaib, Rohid Khan, Sohaib Khan, Simranjeet Singh

UAE Team SWOT Analysis

Strengths

  • Muhammad Waseem's batting experience — as the all-time leading T20I run-scorer for UAE, he provides reliability and class at the top

  • Junaid Siddique's bowling — the team's chief wicket-taker has the ability to break partnerships

  • Familiarity with subcontinental conditions — many players have roots in the subcontinent and are comfortable on slow, turning pitches

  • Returning World Cup players in Alishan Sharafu and Waseem bring valuable tournament experience

Weaknesses

  • Overall squad quality is significantly below the three major teams in their group

  • Batting depth and power-hitting are limited compared to Full Member nations

  • Pace bowling lacks the express speed needed to trouble top-quality international batters

  • Fielding and fitness levels may not match the demands of a month-long tournament

Opportunities

  • Canada match is the most competitive fixture and a genuine opportunity for a win

  • Showcasing Gulf cricket on the global stage helps attract investment and develop the sport in the region

Threats

  • Group D is the toughest in the tournament — New Zealand, South Africa, and Afghanistan are all genuine title contenders

  • Early elimination could deflate the squad before the experience becomes truly valuable

UAE Probable Playing 11

  1. Muhammad Waseem (c)

  2. Alishan Sharafu

  3. Aryansh Sharma

  4. Dhruv Parashar

  5. Muhammad Farooq (wk)

  6. Muhammad Jawadullah

  7. Junaid Siddique

  8. Muhammad Zohaib

  9. Rohid Khan

  10. Sohaib Khan

  11. Simranjeet Singh

CricInnings Prediction: Group Stage

Stay tuned to CricInnings for complete coverage of UAE's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign!

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