Just four months ago, the UAE nearly pulled off the most astonishing upset in the history of women’s cricket. In the semifinal of the Global Qualifiers for the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the UAE faced a highly experienced Sri Lankan team. Chasing a target of 150, the UAE were comfortably positioned at 104 for two in the 15th over. However, they suffered a dramatic collapse, ultimately losing by 15 runs in a heart-wrenching defeat. A victory in that semifinal would have secured their place in the 2024 T20 World Cup, which the UAE is set to host from October 3. Sharing the stage with the world’s top players in the global event would have been the pinnacle of achievement for a nation that only established a proper women’s cricket system 15 years ago.
Despite the crushing loss, the UAE cricketers showcased their resilience with a triumphant performance in a tri-series against Zimbabwe and Namibia, both of whom are ranked higher. Led by Esha Oza, the team won five out of six matches in the tournament held in Windhoek, securing the most significant title in their history. Theertha Satish, the wicketkeeper-batter who amassed 245 runs in six matches, acknowledged that the pain of the Sri Lankan defeat would never fully heal but emphasized its role in guiding their journey towards cricketing excellence. “The pain will always be there, but it provided us with a clear direction on how we want to play our cricket and advance our game,” Satish told the Khaleej Times.
Captain Esha, who contributed 209 runs and took eight wickets with her off-spin, emphasized the team’s determination to overcome the more seasoned opponents. “It was an incredible series for us. Last time we played in Namibia, we didn’t make it to the final. This time, we won the tournament by winning five out of six matches, which feels amazing,” she said. Theertha’s consistent performance with the bat, applying pressure on the opposing bowlers throughout the tournament, was a highlight. “Our bowlers also excelled, particularly in the powerplay. The entire squad played like champions. We were fiercely determined to win, and we did just that.”
The UAE made a strong start in the tournament, defeating hosts Namibia by seven wickets in the opening match on September 6. Their only setback came in the second game, where they lost to Zimbabwe by three wickets in a tense, low-scoring encounter. From then on, the UAE dominated, winning four consecutive matches to claim the title, their first against higher-ranked opponents. Head coach Ahmed Raza praised the team’s resilience in close matches. “Winning away from home under different conditions is always special, and beating a full member on our way to lifting the trophy was a testament to the hard work of our players.”
Raza, a former left-arm spinner who led the UAE men’s team to qualification for the 2022 T20 World Cup, now has his sights set on the 2026 T20 World Cup as the head coach of the women’s team. “We aim to play fearless cricket and take on the game head-on,” he said. “This is just the beginning. The team is eager and ready to challenge stronger opponents. Our primary goal is to qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup.” Theertha echoed her coach’s aspirations. “Every tournament presents different challenges. We aim to grow stronger and play our game the way we envision it in every match. The 2026 World Cup is a goal, but we also have the qualifiers for the Asia Cup. We want to focus on each match as it comes.”
