The Wk-Batter Rahul Chopra has been named as the UAE ODI Captain after Muhammad Waseem stepped down from the role.
Rahul Chopra will lead UAE at the next round of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 games in Oman against the hosts and Netherlands in November.
Waseem has stepped down after 26 matches in charge between 2023-24 and said “I have decided to step down as captain to concentrate on my batting in the ODI format.”
“My best wishes are with the new captain, I will be giving him my full support.” Meanwhile, Rahul Chopra has played just seven ODIs to go with six T20Is.
Update: Muhammad Waseem has decided to step down as captain of the UAE men’s ODI team. Waseem will continue to represent the country in the ODI format. The Emirates Cricket Board has thanked Waseem for his services as team captain and wished him the best for the future.
Statement… pic.twitter.com/6eLgogXpKf— UAE Cricket Official (@EmiratesCricket) October 25, 2024
Waseem shined brightly with an impressive average of 64.28 including a century at Papua New Guinea and three half centuries. Unfortunately, his batting average dropped to 21.10 after the side suffered 19 losses, closer to his overall ODI career average of 25.44.
Waseem’s decision comes after UAE struggled to find their footing in the ongoing 2024-27 edition of the CWC League 2. They are currently positioned at the bottom of the table, with only one of their seven matches including an eight-wicket loss to Namibia.
However, Waseem remains a crucial player for UAE’s T20I team. His form was impressive in the recent tri-series in Namibia where he topped the tournament scoring 159 runs across four innings. His contributions helped UAE clinch the series, securing three wins out of four matches to finish ahead of Namibia and the USA.
UAE will play their next match against Oman in CWC League 2 on November 01 at Al Amerat Cricket Ground Oman Cricket, Oman.
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