UAE T20 World Cup Squad 2026
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, will feature 20 teams competing in 55 matches across world class venues. The United Arab Emirates enters the tournament as one of the fastest improving associate sides, aiming to showcase its progress on the global stage.
Led by Muhammad Waseem, UAE has a blend of experienced performers and exciting young talents. The team is placed in Group D, alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, and Canada.
UAE Squad for T20 CWC 2026
| Batters | Bowlers | All Rounders |
|---|---|---|
| Muhammad Waseem (Captain) | Junaid Siddique (Fast Bowler) | Dhruv Parashar |
| Alishan Sharafu | Matiullah Khan (Fast Bowler) | Harshit Kaushik |
| Aryansh Sharma (Wicketkeeper Batter) | Muhammad Farooq | Muhammad Zohaib |
| Asif Khan | Muhammad Jawadullah | Saghir Khan |
| Ethan D Souza | Rohid Khan (Spinner) | — |
| Haider Ali | Simranjeet Singh (Left arm Spinner) | — |
| Rahul Chopra (Wicketkeeper Batter) | — | — |
Final fifteen member squad will be confirmed by the Emirates Cricket Board.
Leadership and Team Management
Captain
Muhammad Waseem
Head Coach
Expected: Robin Singh
Muhammad Waseem leads with an attacking mindset and has become UAE’s most dependable batter in international cricket.
UAE Group in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
| Team | Qualification Path |
|---|---|
| New Zealand | ICC T20I Rankings |
| South Africa | Top 7 finish in T20 World Cup 2024 |
| Afghanistan | Top 7 finish in T20 World Cup 2024 |
| Canada | Americas Qualifier |
| United Arab Emirates | Asia and East Asia Pacific Qualifier |
Group D presents a challenging mix, but UAE has the skills to compete and pressure higher ranked teams.
UAE Fixtures for the T20 World Cup 2026
| Date | Match | Venue | Local Time | GMT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, Feb 10, 2026 | New Zealand vs UAE | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai | 3:00 PM | 09:30 |
| Fri, Feb 13, 2026 | Canada vs UAE | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi | 3:00 PM | 09:30 |
| Mon, Feb 16, 2026 | Afghanistan vs UAE | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi | 11:00 AM | 05:30 |
| Wed, Feb 18, 2026 | South Africa vs UAE | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi | 11:00 AM | 05:30 |
Predicted UAE Playing XI
Batters, Bowlers, and All Rounders Table
| Batters | Bowlers | All Rounders |
|---|---|---|
| Muhammad Waseem | Muhammad Jawadullah (Left arm Fast) | Dhruv Parashar |
| Alishan Sharafu | Junaid Siddique (Fast) | Harshit Kaushik |
| Asif Khan | Rohid Khan (Spinner) | — |
| Ethan D Souza | Simranjeet Singh (Left arm Spin) | — |
| Aryansh Sharma (Wicketkeeper) | Jack Brassell | — |
Bench Strength: Muhammad Zohaib, Matiullah Khan, Muhammad Farooq, Rahul Chopra, Saghir Khan
Team Strengths and Key Analysis
1. Balanced All Round Core
UAE benefits from multiple all rounders, giving flexibility in team combinations.
2. Strong Leadership
Waseem provides stability with both leadership and batting.
3. Quality Spin Options
Rohid Khan and Simranjeet Singh offer threat on spin friendly surfaces in India.
4. Youthful Talent
Ethan D Souza and Aryansh Sharma add energy and modern T20 shot making.
5. Underdog Factor
UAE thrives when playing without pressure, often surprising stronger teams.
UAE’s Road to the T20 World Cup
UAE’s rise is built on domestic development, improved fitness standards, and consistent results in ICC qualifying events. The 2026 tournament provides a major opportunity for UAE to compete hard, challenge established sides, and pursue a Super 8 qualification.
Final Word
The UAE squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 carries a blend of experience, tactical awareness, and promising youth. With effective leadership, strong spin options, and growing confidence, UAE aims to leave a strong impression in Group D.
