The United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the rising forces in associate cricket, are officially set for their return to the Asia Cup 2025 with a determined 17-member squad. This marks their first Asia Cup appearance since 2016, when the tournament was played in Bangladesh in the T20 format.
Over the past few years, UAE has made steady progress, especially in white-ball cricket. With home advantage, familiar conditions, and a mix of youth and experience, the Emirates will look to challenge some of Asia’s biggest cricketing nations.
UAE Official Squad for Asia Cup 2025
The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has named a 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, with Muhammad Waseem leading the side. Right-arm pacer Matiullah Khan and left-arm spinner Simranjeet Singh are the two fresh inclusions, both bringing valuable experience to the side.
UAE Squad for Asia Cup 2025:
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Muhammad Waseem (C) | Captain / Batter |
| Alishan Sharafu | Batter |
| Aryansh Sharma (WK) | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Asif Khan | Batter |
| Dhruv Parashar | All-Rounder |
| Ethan D’Souza | Batter |
| Haider Ali | Batter |
| Harshit Kaushik | All-Rounder |
| Junaid Siddique | Fast Bowler |
| Matiullah Khan | Fast Bowler |
| Muhammad Farooq | Bowler |
| Muhammad Jawadullah | Bowler |
| Muhammad Zohaib | All-Rounder |
| Rahul Chopra (WK) | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Rohid Khan | Spinner |
| Simranjeet Singh | Left-arm Spinner |
| Saghir Khan | All-Rounder |
Key Players to Watch
- Simranjeet Singh: A crafty left-arm spinner who adds depth to UAE’s spin arsenal.
- Muhammad Waseem (Captain): Explosive opening batter and experienced leader. His power-hitting will set the tone at the top.
- Asif Khan: A reliable run-getter with the ability to accelerate in the middle overs.
- Junaid Siddique: Among UAE’s quickest bowlers, capable of troubling batters with the new ball.
- Matiullah Khan: The experienced right-arm pacer returns to bolster the bowling attack.
UAE Asia Cup 2025 Fixtures
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 10 | UAE vs India | UAE |
| September 15 | UAE vs Oman | UAE |
| September 17 | UAE vs Pakistan | UAE |
Squad Analysis: Balance of Youth and Experience
This UAE squad is built around a strong batting unit led by Waseem, Sharafu, and Asif Khan, supported by versatile all-rounders. The bowling attack has variety, with raw pace (Junaid Siddique, Matiullah, Jawadullah), spin options (Simranjeet Singh, Rohid Khan), and all-round contributors who can adapt well to UAE’s conditions.
Strengths:
- Explosive top-order batting.
- Balanced pace and spin options.
- Home conditions advantage.
Weaknesses:
- Pressure handling in close games.
- Lack of big-match experience against full-member nations.
Captaincy & Leadership
Muhammad Waseem continues as UAE’s captain, having led the side admirably in qualifiers and bilateral series. His aggressive batting and composed leadership make him the ideal figure to guide a relatively young squad through the challenges of the Asia Cup.
Can UAE Cause an Upset in Asia Cup 2025?
Placed in Group A with India, Pakistan, and Oman, UAE faces a tough challenge. However, playing on home soil gives them an edge. With a fearless approach and nothing to lose, the Emirates could surprise one or more full-member nations and keep themselves in the hunt for a Super Four spot.
The Asia Cup 2025 may well be the stage where UAE announces itself as a genuine contender in Asian cricket.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the captain of the UAE team for Asia Cup 2025?
Muhammad Waseem will lead UAE in the Asia Cup 2025.
2. How many players are in the UAE squad?
The UAE has announced a 17-member squad.
3. Which group is UAE in for the Asia Cup 2025?
UAE is in Group A alongside India, Pakistan, and Oman.
4. When was UAE’s last Asia Cup appearance?
UAE last featured in the 2016 Asia Cup (T20 format in Bangladesh).
5. What are UAE’s chances of qualifying for the Super Four?
UAE will need to beat at least two teams in their group to qualify, with net run rate playing a crucial role.
