Key Highlights
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced their squad for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches.
- Rahul Chopra will lead the UAE team as both captain and wicketkeeper-batter.
- The tournament, to be held in Dubai from October 26 to November 5, includes matches against Nepal and the USA.
- UAE aims to build momentum for World Cup 2027 qualification through this series.
Tournament Overview and Fixtures
The UAE are set to host the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 matches, which will take place from October 26 to November 5. This week-long tri-series is designed to determine qualification for the next phase of the World Cup. The tournament will feature seven matches in total, all starting at 9:30 am local time.
The series kicks off with a clash between Nepal and the USA on October 26 at the Dubai International Stadium (DIS).
Hosts UAE will open their campaign against the USA on October 28 at DIS. They will then face Nepal at ICC Academy Oval 1 on October 30, followed by a rematch with the USA on November 3 at DIS. The home side’s final encounter will be against Nepal on November 5 again at ICC Academy Oval 1.
Nepal and the USA are also scheduled to play each other twice—first on the opening day and again on November 1 at ICC Academy Oval 1. This series is crucial for all teams involved, as it provides valuable points in the ICC CWC League 2 standings, which will determine qualification for the next phase of the World Cup.
UAE Squad Details
The UAE selectors have announced a balanced 15-member squad led by wicketkeeper-batter Rahul Chopra. The side features a blend of promising young players and experienced campaigners, reflecting UAE’s long-term vision for building a competitive one-day unit ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Key players in the batting department include Alishan Sharafu, Haider Ali, and Shoaib Khan. In terms of pace bowling, Junaid Siddique and Simranjeet Singh will spearhead the attack.
The spin department is strong with Muhammad Rohid Khan and Zahid Ali capable of exploiting Dubai’s dry surfaces. Emerging all-rounders Dhruv Parshar and Harshit Kaushik have also earned call-ups, providing exposure to fresh talent.
UAE’s captain Rahul Chopra will lead the team from both the field and the dugout, combining his batting skills with glovework. This young side under Chopra’s leadership aims to deliver consistent performances against strong opposition in Nepal and the USA, leveraging home advantage to gain valuable points for World Cup 2027 qualification.
Building Momentum for World Cup 2027 Qualification
The ICC CWC League 2 acts as a critical gateway to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, offering teams an opportunity to accumulate ranking points. The UAE squad is geared up to perform well in this series and showcase their growing depth in white-ball cricket.
With home advantage and a youthful side under Rahul Chopra’s leadership, the hosts will aim to deliver strong performances against Nepal and the USA. This series provides a valuable platform for UAE’s upcoming players to gain experience at the international level and contribute towards World Cup 2027 qualification.
The UAE squad is expected to perform well in this challenging series, as they prepare for the crucial phase of the World Cup qualifying pathway. The tournament will be watched closely by cricket enthusiasts and selectors alike, as it sets the stage for a potentially exciting future for UAE’s one-day team.
