The United Arab Emirates have qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, securing a top-three finish at the Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in Oman.
Muhammad Waseem’s side claimed their place with a decisive win over Japan, joining Nepal and hosts Oman to complete the final lineup of 20 teams for next year’s tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Japan’s defeat also ended the qualification hopes of Qatar and Samoa, who needed a Japanese win to stay in contention.
UAE dominated in the field, with Muhammad Farooq running out Abhishek Anand and later dismissing Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming, caught on the boundary off Haider Ali’s bowling. Japan faltered early, reaching 25 for 3 in the Powerplay. Haider led with the ball, taking 3 for 12, including the wicket of Esam Rahman.
Wataru Miyauchi offered resistance with an unbeaten 45 off 32 balls, supported by Abdul Samad’s 11, helping Japan post 116.
In reply, UAE opened strongly. Waseem and Alishan Sharafu raced to 36 without loss in three overs. Though both fell short of half-centuries, the side completed the chase in the 13th over.
