DUBAI – The UAE cricket team is determined to deliver an impressive performance at the upcoming T20 World Cup. Team captain Mohammad Wasim emphasized that the focus for now is not on their opponents but on improving their own game. “If we play good cricket on match day, we can defeat any team,” Wasim said in an exclusive interview with Express in Dubai.
The T20 World Cup is set to take place in India and Sri Lanka in February and March 2024. The UAE secured their spot in the tournament by performing admirably in the qualifiers. They are placed in Group D alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, and Canada.
Wasim expressed his excitement about the World Cup, stating, “We are thrilled to be part of the World Cup. This year has been excellent for our team. We took part in the Asia Cup, and now we’ve qualified for the World Cup.”
Reflecting on the team’s preparations, Wasim emphasized that the UAE has been working hard to perform well on the big stage. “At this moment, we are not focused on our opponents; our primary focus is on our own performance. We are putting in the effort to ensure that, no matter who we play, we can perform at our best. If we play good cricket on match day, we can beat anyone.”
The UAE captain also highlighted the balance within the team, saying, “Our team is well-balanced right now. We have experienced players along with talented youngsters. We’ll enter the field with a solid combination.”
Wasim further noted that cricket is a team sport, and success cannot be attributed to one individual. “I can’t pinpoint one player because a team doesn’t win because of just one person. We will perform as a team, and that will bring us success. I am confident that the UAE, as a team, will perform well.”
On his individual form, Wasim expressed satisfaction, saying, “I’m happy with my performances so far. I’ll continue to lead the team and maintain the consistency in both batting and leadership roles.”
Regarding the challenge of playing against Test nations, Wasim said, “We are working hard to improve and compete against Test teams, but it’s not going to be easy. We have already defeated teams like New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. While we may not have been able to beat some of the top teams yet, I am confident that one day, we will.”
When asked if there was a particular team he was focused on, Wasim replied, “We are not focusing on any one team. Also, Pakistan and India are not in our group for the World Cup. We will focus on our own game and work hard to defeat any team we face.”
Wasim also commented on the value of playing against Test nations, adding, “It’s a great opportunity to play against these teams. As we continue to play them, our performances will improve. Even though we give them a tough time now, soon we will start beating them.”
Reflecting on his journey, Wasim said, “I’ve worked very hard to reach this point in my career. I started playing cricket in Pakistan and later moved to the UAE, where I began building my career. Both my country and my board have supported me greatly.”
He expressed gratitude toward the UAE, saying, “The UAE has given me a lot of respect, and it is because of them that I’ve earned my name in cricket. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”
Regarding the possibility of representing Pakistan in the future, Wasim commented, “I can’t say much about that right now, but if I had been playing the way I am now, perhaps I would have had that chance.”
In a lighter moment, Wasim jokingly named himself as his favorite cricketer but quickly acknowledged the influence of Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran. “But overall, if I had to choose, AB de Villiers is my favorite cricketer,” he added.
Wasim also praised his teammate Fakhar Zaman, saying, “I have a great rapport with Fakhar. He’s not only a fantastic cricketer but also a wonderful person. His aggressive batting is a delight to watch, and it’s always exciting when he scores runs.”
Lastly, Wasim lauded the ILT20 (International League T20), calling it an excellent tournament with high standards of cricket, and praised the opportunity it provides to showcase talent.
AS the T20 World Cup is around the corner, UAE is focused on putting together a strong performance and Wasim’s leadership would be key to their success.
