Muhammad Waseem Steps Down as UAE ODI Captain

Muhammad Waseem has decided to step down as the captain of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) men’s ODI cricket team. He led the team in 26 matches from 2023 to 2024. Wicketkeeper-batter Rahul Chopra will replace him and lead the team in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 games in Oman against the hosts and the Netherlands in early November.

Waseem’s Decision

Waseem stated, “I have decided to step down as captain to concentrate on my batting in the ODI format.” He expressed his support for the new captain, saying, “My best wishes are with the new captain, I will be giving him my full support.”

Chopra’s New Role

Rahul Chopra, who has limited experience with seven ODIs and six T20Is, will now lead the team. Waseem, a 30-year-old top-order batter, took over as ODI captain from CP Rizwan during the 2019-23 CWC League 2, leading his first game against Nepal in March 2023.

Waseem’s Performance

Under Waseem’s leadership, UAE won seven ODIs and lost 19. He performed well in victories, averaging 64.28, with one century and three half-centuries. His career average stands at 25.44. UAE is currently at the bottom of the 2024-27 CWC League 2 table, with one win in seven games. They lost Waseem’s last game as captain to Namibia by eight wickets.

Continued T20I Involvement

Despite stepping down as ODI captain, Waseem remains active in the T20I team. He recently helped UAE win a tri-series in Namibia, where they finished at the top. Waseem was the highest scorer of the tournament, with 159 runs in four innings, as UAE won three out of four games.