Batting Skills and Adaptability
Sharafu has been a local standout, having played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) and excelling as a middle-order batter. He scored 392 runs at a strike rate of just under 121 in the ILT20, proving his ability to build innings.
Sharafu’s Adaptability and Future Ambitions
“I enjoy playing pace early on in my innings but this was something I started during my second season when I started playing for ADKR,” Sharafu explained. “It’s nice to translate that into the UAE set-up. You gotta do what the team needs you to do.”
Sharafu has picked up valuable insights from players like Liam Livingstone, who helped him ease into his new role. “One thing I picked up from him was that there’s always a lot more time than you think even in T20,” he said. “It’s just a matter of giving yourself the best chance.”
Chasing Victories and the World Cup Dream
The UAE team faces an uphill battle, but Sharafu remains confident. “We have chased 200 in the past and we’ve played against some quality opposition,” he said. “On the day whatever happens you have to adapt.”
Personal Goals and Future Hopes
Sharafu aims for his first T20I century at the World Cup, a milestone that would cement his status as UAE’s leading middle-order batter. “Whatever opportunities I get, I want to help the team,” he said. “But if I have to manifest something, it would probably be getting my first T20 hundred at the World Cup.”
The Home Crowd Factor
Playing a World Cup in his birth country is a surreal experience for Sharafu. “I’ve been looking forward to the World Cup here since the moment we qualified,” he said. “It’s a dream come true.” Despite personal challenges, he remains committed: “My parents can’t travel because my younger brother has his boards back home… unless it’s a surprise!”
The UAE team’s chances in this tournament are closely tied to Sharafu’s performance as they navigate a group of formidable opponents. With the weight of expectation on his shoulders, Sharafu is ready to deliver.
