UAE Appoints Alishan Sharafu as Captain for Asia Cup 2025
The UAE cricket team is gearing up for the ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025, with Alishan Sharafu appointed as captain. This tournament, taking place in Doha, Qatar, from November 14 to 23, offers a platform for young talent to shine on an international stage.
Tournament Overview
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup features eight teams divided into two groups. The UAE finds itself in Group B, alongside formidable opponents India A, Pakistan A, and Oman. This competition is crucial for the development of emerging players, allowing them to gain valuable experience against strong teams.
UAE’s Match Schedule
The UAE will kick off its campaign against India A on November 14, followed by a match against Oman on November 16. Their final group stage game will be against Pakistan A on November 18. The semi-finals are scheduled for November 21, with the final taking place on November 23. All matches will be held at the West End International Cricket Stadium.
UAE Squad Details
The 15-member squad includes several promising players who have demonstrated their skills in both international fixtures and domestic competitions. The team comprises:
– **Alishan Sharafu (captain)** – Aayan Khan – Ahmed Tariq – Ethan D’Souza – Haider Shah (wicketkeeper) – Harshit Kaushik – Mayank Kumar – Muhammad Arfan – Muhammad Farazuddin – Muhammad Farooq – Muhammad Jawadullah – Rohid Khan – Sohaib Khan – Yayin Khan – Zahid Ali
The support staff includes team manager Amjad Ezzi, head coach Lalchand Rajput, strength and conditioning coach Azharuddin Qureshi, video analyst Manipreet Sidhu, and physiotherapist Manish Pradeshi.
Group A Competitors
In Group A, teams include Afghanistan A, Bangladesh A, Sri Lanka A, and Hong Kong. The competition promises to be intense as teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals.
FAQs
When does the ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 start?
The tournament begins on November 14, 2025, with the UAE’s first match against India A.
Where will the matches be held?
All matches will take place at the West End International Cricket Stadium in Doha, Qatar.
Who are the key players in the UAE squad?
Key players include captain Alishan Sharafu and wicketkeeper Haider Shah, along with several emerging talents who have performed well in recent competitions.
Conclusion
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025 presents a significant opportunity for the UAE’s young cricketers to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. With a well-rounded squad and a challenging group, the team aims to make a strong impression in the tournament. Fans can look forward to an exciting series of matches starting November 14.
The appointment of Alishan Sharafu as captain reflects the UAE’s commitment to nurturing young talent within its cricketing framework. Sharafu, who has previously represented the UAE in various formats, brings a blend of experience and youthful energy to the leadership role. His selection is seen as a strategic move to inspire the next generation of cricketers and to foster a competitive spirit within the team. The UAE cricket board has emphasized the importance of leadership in developing players who can perform under pressure, especially in high-stakes tournaments like the Asia Cup.
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup serves not only as a competitive platform but also as a scouting opportunity for national selectors. The tournament is designed to identify and promote emerging players who can potentially contribute to their respective national teams in the future. With the increasing popularity of cricket in the region, the UAE aims to leverage this tournament to enhance its cricketing profile and build a robust pipeline of talent. The exposure gained from competing against established teams will be invaluable for the players, as they seek to hone their skills and adapt to international standards.
As the tournament approaches, the UAE team is likely to focus on building team cohesion and strategizing for their matches. The coaching staff, led by Lalchand Rajput, will play a crucial role in preparing the players both mentally and physically. The team’s preparation will include rigorous training sessions and practice matches to ensure that they are well-equipped to face their opponents. The emphasis on teamwork and collaboration will be essential as they aim to navigate the challenges posed by stronger cricketing nations in their group.
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