DUBAI: After having endured a difficult few months last year, the UAE team returned with a bang qualifying for the Asia Cup in Bangladesh. The UAE finished on top of the table winning all their three matches in the qualifiers.
Up against a strong Afghanistan team in Dhaka, the UAE put on a fine performance to ensure they started on a winning note. They carried on the good work to seal victories against Hong Kong and Oman that ensured them a berth in the main event.
Create history
Now as they prepare to take on the Asian bigwigs starting Thursday with their first match against Sri Lanka, skipper Amjad Javed believes his team can create history. “The goal is simple. We are here with three wins from three matches and we want to create history for the UAE by beating a full member team,” he said.
Things were not going well for the UAE till recently but a victory against Ireland back home that came for the first time in 15 years meant the UAE was driving high on confidence. “The team is looking positive and the body language is good. The team is enjoying every match they have been playing since they landed in Bangladesh.
“The team was not doing well back home but this performance has put those memories behind,” said Javed, who was appointed to lead the team just days before they flew for the Asia Cup qualifiers. “I was not expecting this kind of a performance from the team. I’m thrilled that the team has done a wonderful job. I thank the board (Emirates Cricket Board) and selectors for having the confidence in me,” said Javed.
In their second match, the UAE will take on Bangladesh on February 28 and meet Pakistan the following day. They play India in their last match on March 3. “I think we are doing very well in all the areas. We need to keep things as simple as possible and continue doing the same things,” said Javed.
Praising coach Aaqib Javed’s role in the success, he said: “He is the main force behind the team. He keeps pushing the players to perform and has full faith in the team.”
