The UAE return to the Asia Cup for the first time since 2016, bringing back experience in the form of Matiullah Khan and Simranjeet Singh. With Muhammad Waseem leading, they face a tough Group A featuring India, Pakistan, and Oman. Let’s break down their squad, strengths, gaps, and possible match outcomes.
Squad Overview
- Captain: Muhammad Waseem
- New Additions: Matiullah Khan (fast bowler), Simranjeet Singh (spinner)
- Core Retained: Most of the tri-series squad against Pakistan and Afghanistan
Balance Check:
- Batting: Waseem, Asif Khan, Alishan Sharafu provide the firepower.
- Allround options: Dhruv Parashar, Harshit Kaushik add flexibility.
- Bowling: Junaid Siddique, Jawadullah, and now Matiullah bring pace variety; Simranjeet adds spin depth alongside Rohid Khan.
Strengths
1. Experienced Core
- Waseem & Asif Khan are UAE’s most reliable run-scorers. Both have the ability to take on world-class attacks, though consistency will be the real test.
2. Varied Bowling Attack
- Left-right pace mix: Jawadullah (left-arm) + Junaid Siddique (right-arm) + Matiullah (returning) can trouble sides with different angles.
- Spin depth: Simranjeet Singh’s recall boosts control in the middle overs; Rohid Khan can provide attacking options.
3. Familiar Conditions
- Playing at home in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is a massive edge. UAE bowlers understand how to exploit slow pitches, while batters are used to playing spin-heavy contests.
Weaknesses
1. Lack of Big-Match Experience
- Outside of Waseem, few players have faced pressure against India or Pakistan in high-profile tournaments.
- Nerves could undo their plans early.
2. Middle-Order Fragility
- The top three can score, but stability from 4–7 is uncertain. If early wickets fall, UAE may struggle to post competitive totals.
3. Strike Bowling Against Top Sides
- While varied, the attack doesn’t yet have a genuine strike bowler who can break partnerships consistently against elite batters.
Key Players to Watch
- Muhammad Waseem (C): Needs to lead with both bat and intent.
- Asif Khan: Can accelerate quickly; UAE’s best chance of chasing or setting big totals.
- Junaid Siddique: Tall pacer who thrives with the new ball.
- Simranjeet Singh: His left-arm spin could be crucial against Oman, where conditions suit him best.
Group A Outlook
| Opponent | Head-to-Head vs UAE | Chances in Asia Cup Match |
|---|---|---|
| India | 0 wins | Slim. UAE’s focus will be limiting damage and learning from the challenge. |
| Pakistan | 0 wins | Similar to India — power and pace depth too strong. |
| Oman | UAE lead 5-0 in T20Is | Best shot at victory; UAE’s familiarity with conditions gives them an edge. |
Match Expectations
- Vs India (Sept 10, Dubai):
Likely tough start. India’s top order (Rohit, Gill, Kohli) will test UAE bowlers. Success for UAE might simply be restricting India under 200 and showing fight with the bat. - Vs Pakistan:
Pakistan’s fast bowling unit will challenge UAE’s batting order. A respectable total and early wickets could make it interesting, but history favors Pakistan heavily. - Vs Oman:
The must-win game. UAE’s superior record and experience should tilt things their way, but Oman’s young squad has nothing to lose — a potential banana skin.
Realistic Goals for UAE
- Beat Oman to stay in contention.
- Compete hard against India and Pakistan, aiming for small wins (e.g., partnerships, restricting top players).
- Showcase depth — prove they can push into the Super Fours, even if outsiders expect otherwise.
UAE’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign is about proving credibility. With Waseem’s leadership, fresh pace in Matiullah, and spin stability from Simranjeet, they have tools to spring a surprise. But to survive Group A, their batting has to click beyond the top order.
If they beat Oman and show grit against India or Pakistan, UAE walk away with respect earned — and that might be as valuable as a semifinal spot.
