There has long been a lingering sense of frustration within the UAE cricket fraternity. Despite the country’s growing stature as a world-class venue for international matches, its national team—comprising mostly expatriate players—has struggled to deliver consistent results on the global stage.
After a disappointing campaign in the last Asia Cup at home, the UAE have now earned a fresh shot at redemption by clinching the final qualifying spot for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka next year.
Rajput’s Steady Hand Guides UAE Resurgence
A key figure behind UAE’s qualification campaign has been Lalchand Rajput, the former India Test opener and a seasoned coach who has carved a reputation for lifting underdog teams.
From guiding a young Indian side led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni to the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup title, to helping Afghanistan and Zimbabwe make significant strides, Rajput’s coaching journey has spanned diverse cricketing cultures and challenges.
The feeling is one of immense satisfaction. When I took up the UAE role, I set three targets — to qualify for the Asia Cup, the T20 World Cup, and the ODI World Cup. We’ve ticked off the first two; now the focus shifts to 2027.
‘We’re Not Here To Just Make Up The Numbers’
Led by the explosive Mohammed Waseem, the UAE finished behind Nepal and Oman in the Asian qualifiers, both of whom impressed with competitive performances against higher-ranked sides like India.
“ It’s not every day that a team like ours gets to feature at a World Cup,” Rajput said. “This is a huge opportunity for our players to gain exposure — but our aim is not merely participation. We want to compete, and compete well.
Coaching Philosophy: Lifting Underdogs
Rajput’s career has been defined by his work with emerging teams. “When I join a new side, my goal is always to take them to the next level,” he explained. “If a player is performing at 50% of his potential, I aim to get him to 70%. I did that with Afghanistan, who rose from being newcomers to earning Test status, and with Zimbabwe, who qualified for the 2022 T20 World Cup. I want to achieve something similar with UAE.”
A familiar face in Dubai’s cricket circles, Rajput’s connection with the region runs deep through years of coaching clinics and developmental work.
Blueprint For The 2026 World Cup
With the UAE likely to encounter conditions similar to home, Rajput’s preparations are already underway.
Our plans will crystallise once we know which group we’re drawn into — India’s or Sri Lanka. We’re focusing on strengthening the middle order and adding versatile all-rounders, which will be vital in subcontinental conditions.
Concerns And Cautious Optimism
Former UAE captain and ICC Associate Player of the Year Khurram Khan welcomed the qualification but struck a note of caution.
It’s great news for UAE cricket, but we still have ground to cover. We couldn’t beat Oman or Nepal during the qualifiers, so there’s clearly work to do before the World Cup.
‘2007 Changed Cricket Forever’
Reflecting on India’s trailblazing triumph in the 2007 T20 World Cup, Rajput’s voice carried nostalgia. “No one expected us to win,” he recalled. “That victory changed everything. It kickstarted the T20 revolution and transformed how the game is played and viewed.”
