The Emirates Cricket Board has officially named the United Arab Emirates squad for the upcoming Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 in Bangkok, a lineup that feels like a perfect crossroads of the team’s past successes and its future ambitions. Led by the ever-reliable Esha Oza, this group is more than just a collection of names; it’s a unit that has spent the last year proving that Associate nations are ready to compete on the world stage. The inclusion of consistent performers like Theertha Satish and the young spin sensation Vaishnave Mahesh ensures that the team travels with a backbone of genuine international pedigree.
The batting unit remains the primary engine of this side, anchored by the record-breaking opening pair of Oza and Satish. Their chemistry at the top of the order has been the catalyst for many of the UAE’s highest totals, providing a sense of security that allows the middle order to play with freedom. Players like Rinitha Rajith and Samaira Dharnidharka bring that necessary all-round balance, ensuring the team can pivot their strategy depending on whether they are setting a target or chasing under pressure on the slow, turning tracks of Thailand.
In the bowling department, the UAE is leaning heavily on their tactical depth. Vaishnave Mahesh continues to be the X-factor with her leg-spin, often proving to be the difference-maker in the middle overs where games are won or lost. Backed by the discipline of Vaishnave Mahesh and the rising talent of Samaira Dharnidharka, the attack is designed to squeeze opponents and force errors. This blend of variety—from sharp pace to subtle spin—is what the coaching staff believes will be key to dismantling the A sides of the more established cricketing nations.
The team’s recent form provides a fascinating backdrop to this announcement. Over their last five encounters, the UAE has shown remarkable resilience and tactical growth. They secured a commanding victory against Bahrain in the GCC Championship, which was followed by a professional display against Oman. Perhaps their most significant recent milestone was a hard-fought win over Thailand in November 2025, a result that proved they can perform under pressure against high-quality opposition on away soil. While a tough loss to Scotland served as a reminder of the work still to be done, the team bounced back with a gritty performance against Namibia, proving that their mental toughness is catching up to their technical skill.
The statistical landscape of this squad is dominated by two names that have become synonymous with UAE cricket excellence. Esha Oza leads the charts with an incredible 3,126 runs at a healthy average of 32.90, making her the first woman from an Associate nation to breach the 3,000-run mark in T20Is. She is closely followed by Theertha Satish, who has amassed 2,211 runs with a nearly identical average of 33.00, showcasing the incredible consistency at the top of the order.
On the bowling front, Vaishnave Mahesh remains the standard-bearer, having claimed 115 wickets at a stunning average of 11.60. Her ability to take wickets regularly is complemented by the captain herself, as Esha Oza has also contributed 87 wickets with the ball. Samaira Dharnidharka rounds out the top three with 55 wickets, providing the crucial breakthroughs that have often set the tone for the UAE’s winning streaks.
Squad:
Esha Oza (C), Al Maseera Jahangir, Heena Hotchandani, Indhuja Nandakumar, Lavanya Keny, Rinitha Rajith, Samaira Dharnidharka, Siya Gokhale, Athige Silva, Suraksha Kotte, Theertha Satish, Udeni Chathurika, Vaishnave Mahesh, Archara Supriya, Keziah Miriam
Schedule:
- 13th February 2026 (Friday) – United Arab Emirates vs India A
- 15th February 2026 (Sunday) – United Arab Emirates v Nepal
- 17th February 2026 (Tuesday) – United Arab Emirates vs Pakistan
As this squad steps onto the field in Bangkok, they carry more than just their kits; they carry the momentum of a program that has become the gold standard for Associate cricket. With Esha Oza and Theertha Satish providing the firepower at the top and Vaishnave Mahesh leading a clinical bowling unit, the UAE is no longer looking to just compete, but to dominate. The road to this Rising Stars Asia Cup has been paved with discipline and record-breaking milestones, and now the stage is set for these women to turn that potential into silverware. It is a defining moment for a team that has truly earned its place among the elite.
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