Dubai: As UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem continues to dazzle with his explosive batting performances, his leadership extends beyond his individual feats, guiding the budding stars of Emirati cricket towards success in the DP World ILT20 tournament. Waseem’s recent unbeaten 68 against Scotland exemplifies his prowess on the field, but it’s his mentorship of talents like Ali Naseer, Zuhaib Zubair, and Muhammad Jawadullah that truly underscores the team’s progress.
Waseem, aged 30, lauded the impact of the DP World ILT20 in nurturing local talent, emphasizing the vital role it plays in providing exposure and experience to aspiring cricketers. With a stellar record of 321 runs in 12 innings and a commendable strike rate of 148, Waseem’s contributions have been pivotal, earning him recognition as the Best UAE Player for the second consecutive season.
Reflecting on his standout performances, Waseem expressed pride in representing his country in a league of such high caliber. His leadership was instrumental in guiding MI Emirates to victory, culminating in a spectacular season marked by consistent excellence across all facets of the game.
Addressing the team’s achievements, Waseem highlighted the importance of learning from past mistakes, noting the collective effort that propelled MI Emirates to secure the title this year. With seasoned veterans like Trent Boult, Dwayne Bravo, and Kieron Pollard bolstering the squad, Waseem emphasized the invaluable experience they bring to the table, fostering a culture of teamwork and growth.
Amidst his stellar displays, Waseem singled out his performance in the tournament final as particularly memorable, where his quickfire 43 runs off just 24 balls proved decisive in securing victory for MI Emirates. His ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments epitomizes his value to the team and underscores his status as a leader both on and off the pitch.
As UAE cricket continues its upward trajectory, fueled by the emergence of promising talents under Waseem’s guidance, the future looks bright for the nation’s cricketing aspirations. With the DP World ILT20 serving as a springboard for growth and development, Waseem’s stewardship ensures that the journey towards excellence remains steadfast and promising for UAE cricket.
Charles Irvin is a distinguished author known for his insightful contributions to Dubai Magazine. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Charles captures the essence of Dubai's vibrant culture, business landscape, and innovative spirit.
