Muhammad Waseem to Lead UAE in Ireland T20I Series Before T20 World Cup 2026

The United Arab Emirates have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match T20I series against Ireland, scheduled to be played in Dubai on January 29 and 31. This series represents UAE's final competitive action before they embark on their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in India.

Muhammad Waseem Leads a Balanced Squad

Experienced campaigner Muhammad Waseem will captain the side, continuing his leadership role as UAE prepare for their biggest cricketing challenge of the year. The squad selection reflects a blend of experience and recent form, with the selectors opting for continuity ahead of the global showpiece event.

Familiar Faces Anchor the Squad

The core of UAE's batting lineup remains intact with Waseem himself, Basil Hameed, and Junaid Siddique all receiving the nod. These players have been instrumental in UAE's recent successes and will be expected to shoulder the responsibility in both the Ireland series and the upcoming World Cup.

In-Form Players Rewarded

Recent performers have also been recognized, with Rahul Chopra, Simranjeet Singh, Harshit Kaushik, and Muhammad Jawadullah all earning their spots in the squad. Their inclusion signals the selectors' confidence in players who have delivered when it mattered most.

Full UAE Squad for Ireland Series

• Captain: Muhammad Waseem
• Wicketkeepers: Aryansh Sharma, Rahul Chopra
• Batters/All-rounders: Alishan Sharafu, Basil Hameed, Haider Ali, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Zohaib
• Bowlers/All-rounders: Harshit Kaushik, Muhammad Arfan, Muhammad Farooq, Muhammad Jawadullah, Rohid Khan, Sohaib Khan, Simranjeet Singh

Road to the T20 World Cup 2026

UAE secured their place at the T20 World Cup 2026 as the last team to qualify, earning their tickets through the Asia & East Asia-Pacific Qualifier held in October 2025. Their journey to India represents a significant achievement for Associate cricket.

Group D Challenge Awaits

UAE have been drawn in Group D and face a formidable schedule:

Warm-Up Fixtures

Before their group stage campaign begins, UAE will fine-tune their preparations with official warm-up matches against Nepal (February 3) and Italy (February 6).

World Cup Squad Deadline Looms

While the Ireland series squad has been confirmed, UAE are yet to finalize their T20 World Cup squad. The deadline for submission is midnight on January 30, giving the management crucial time to assess player form and fitness during the Ireland series before making their final selections.

Looking Ahead

The Ireland series provides UAE with the perfect platform to build momentum and confidence before the World Cup. With experienced players leading the charge and in-form cricketers providing depth, UAE will be looking to make a statement in Dubai before taking on the world's best in India.

The tournament opener against New Zealand on February 10 in Chennai will be a stern test of UAE's credentials, but with proper preparation through this Ireland series and the warm-up matches, the Emirates will aim to spring surprises on the global stage.