DP World ILT20 stars powered the UAE’s competitive run at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, highlighting the league’s growing influence on national success.
DUBAI: DP World ILT20 stars played a defining role in the UAE’s spirited campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, reinforcing the tournament’s value as a high-performance pathway for national talent. Competing across four demanding group matches, the Emirates side displayed composure and belief against established international teams.
Captain Muhammad Waseem led from the front with a commanding 66 off 45 balls against New Zealand, his highest score of the tournament. The MI Emirates batter once again demonstrated the consistency that earned him the Blue Belt as Best UAE Player for a fourth consecutive season in the DP World ILT20. His leadership and shot selection stood out under pressure.
Alishan Sharafu emerged as the UAE’s leading run-scorer with 145 runs in four matches. His composed 55 off 47 against New Zealand anchored the innings and underlined his growing maturity at the top level. Four UAE players registered half-centuries, reflecting the squad’s depth.
In the bowling department, Junaid Siddique delivered one of the tournament’s most memorable spells. His 5 for 35 against Canada at the Arun Jaitley Stadium dismantled the opposition and earned him Player of the Match honours. Siddique finished as the UAE’s highest wicket-taker with seven scalps.
Young wicketkeeper-batter Aryansh Sharma also made headlines with an unbeaten 74 in a five-wicket win over Canada, marking himself as a breakout prospect. The DP World ILT20 continues to provide a competitive environment that sharpens local players for global stages.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 ultimately showcased how DP World ILT20 stars are elevating UAE cricket beyond domestic boundaries.
