UAE Qualify for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 With Dominant Win Over Japan

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) have secured their place at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following a commanding eight-wicket victory over Japan in the Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier held in Al Amerat, Oman on Thursday. The clinical win sees UAE become the third team to qualify for next year’s tournament, set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka, joining Nepal and Oman, who had already punched their tickets earlier this week.

Needing a win to guarantee qualification, the UAE chose to field first and immediately took control of the match. The bowling unit was led by Haider Ali, who delivered a standout performance with 3 wickets in four overs, supported by Muhammad Arfan, who claimed two vital dismissals. Japan struggled to build momentum, managing only 116 for nine in 20 overs. Wataru Miyauchi provided the only notable resistance with a gritty 45 off 32 balls, including two sixes and three boundaries.

Chasing a modest target, the UAE’s top order wasted no time asserting dominance. Captain Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu powered through the opening overs with a blistering 70-run partnership in just seven overs, putting the game firmly out of Japan’s reach. Waseem smashed 42 off 26 balls, hammering eight boundaries, while Sharafu impressed with 46 off 27 balls, striking four fours and three sixes.

This victory cements the UAE’s reputation as a rising force in Associate cricket and marks their return to the global stage after their last appearance in the 2022 edition. With Nepal currently topping the Super Six table with four wins and Oman close behind, the Asia/East Asia-Pacific region has delivered a highly competitive qualifying campaign.

As the cricketing world looks ahead to the 2026 T20 World Cup, the UAE will aim to make a significant impact, buoyed by a squad that has shown both talent and composure under pressure.