There is a specific kind of magic that happens under the lights at Al Amerat in Oman. For the UAE national team, that magic felt like destiny. On a warm Thursday evening in October 2025, the years of hard work, the early morning training sessions in the Dubai heat, and the heartbreak of past misses finally culminated in one glorious moment: Qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
The final hurdle was a "must-win" clash against Japan. While Japan had been the surprise package of the tournament, the UAE walked onto the field with a "clinical" mindset. From the first ball, the intent was clear. Haider Ali produced a masterclass in disciplined bowling, ripping through the top order to finish with 3 for 12. Japan were restricted to 116, a total that never looked enough against a hungry Emirati side.
Then came the "Waseem & Sharafu Show." Captain Muhammad Waseem (42 off 26) and Alishan Sharafu (46 off 27) didn't just chase the target; they dismantled it. They raced to 70 runs in just seven overs, treating the chase like a victory lap. When the winning runs were hit in the 13th over, the dugout emptied—the UAE were officially the 20th and final team to book their ticket to India and Sri Lanka.
But this win is about more than just a tournament spot. It is a signal to every young kid playing in the academies of Sharjah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi. It proves that the UAE isn't just a "host" for world-class cricket—it’s a powerhouse producing it. As the team prepares to face the giants of the game in February 2026, the message is simple: the desert stars are ready to shine on the biggest stage of all.
Qualification Snapshot
- The Clincher: UAE beat Japan by 8 wickets.
- Standout Performer: Haider Ali (3/12).
- What’s Next: The 20-team T20 World Cup in India & Sri Lanka (Feb–March 2026).