The United Arab Emirates are preparing for their third Twenty20 World Cup campaign with hopes of causing an upset in what has been dubbed the tournament's 'group of death'. The team, which has only one previous World Cup victory and missed the last edition, is determined to make an impact when they face New Zealand in their opening match at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.
Fast bowler Junaid Siddique believes the squad now has the confidence to challenge top-tier teams, noting that the domestic International League T20 ILT20, launched in 2023, has given local players valuable exposure alongside global stars. Siddique, who represented Sharjah Warriors this season, said the experience has boosted belief that one strong performance could turn the tide against stronger opponents.
The UAE face a daunting challenge in a group featuring South Africa, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. Despite the odds, Siddique emphasised that consistent opportunities against full member nations are crucial for growth, as only nine of their 23 T20 matches last year were against top sides. The campaign represents both a test of resilience and a chance for the UAE to showcase progress on the international stage.
