Muhammad Waseem Steps Down as UAE ODI Captain; Rahul Chopra Takes Charge

In a significant development for UAE cricket, Muhammad Waseem has stepped down as the captain of the UAE men's ODI team after overseeing 26 matches from 2023 to 2024. Wicketkeeper-batter Rahul Chopra has been appointed as the new captain and is set to lead the team in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup (CWC) League 2 tri-series in Oman next month, where they will face the hosts and the Netherlands.

Waseem's Tenure as Captain

During Waseem's leadership, which began in March 2023 during the CWC League 2, the UAE team recorded seven victories against 19 losses. Notably, Waseem shone as the standout performer in the matches won, boasting an impressive average of 64.28, which included a century (119 runs) against Papua New Guinea and three half-centuries. However, his form dipped in the 19 matches lost, where he averaged just 21.10, closer to his career average of 25.44.

Rahul Chopra's New Role

Rahul Chopra, who has played only seven ODIs along with six T20Is, now faces the challenge of leading the team during a crucial phase. His appointment comes at a time when the UAE squad is looking to rebuild and improve their standing in the CWC League 2.

While Waseem has stepped down from the captaincy, he remains a key player in the squad, having played an important role in the T20I team. Earlier this month, he was instrumental in leading the UAE to victory in a tri-series in Namibia, where he emerged as the top scorer with 159 runs across four innings.

As the UAE team prepares for the upcoming tri-series in Oman, all eyes will be on Rahul Chopra as he seeks to steer the team towards better performances and a brighter future in international cricket.