Esha Oza to Lead UAE in ACC Women’s Premier Cup 2026

Seasoned all-rounder has been named captain of the UAE Women’s National Cricket Team for the ACC Women’s Premier Cup 2026, set to take place in Malaysia from June 3 to June 13.

The tournament will feature 18 teams competing in the T20 format, with the top four sides securing qualification for the upcoming ACC Women’s Asia Cup.

UAE Placed in Group B

UAE have been drawn in Group B alongside China, Oman, Philippines, and Saudi Arabia. The team will be aiming for a strong campaign as they look to book a place in the semifinals and earn qualification for the continental event.

Strong 14-Member UAE Squad Announced

The UAE Cricket Board has announced a balanced 14-member squad featuring experienced players and promising young talent.

Along with captain Esha Oza, the squad includes Al Maseera Jahangir, Heena Hotchandani, Indhuja Nandakumar, Katie Thompson, Lavanya Keny, Mehul Pranav Kulkarni, Rinitha Rajith, Samaira Dharnidharka, Sashikala Silva, Simran Sheth, Suraksha Kotte, wicketkeeper Theertha Satish, and Vaishnave Mahesh.

Coaching and Support Staff

The support staff for the tournament includes team manager Subha Venkataraman, head coach Ahmed Raza, strength and conditioning coach Shyla Alam, and physiotherapist Merin Saji.

The management will be focused on preparing the side for the demanding tournament schedule in Malaysian conditions.

UAE Match Schedule in ACC Women’s Premier Cup 2026

UAE will begin their campaign against Saudi Arabia on June 3 at the YSD UKM Oval. Their second group-stage match will be against Oman on June 4 at the STC Oval.

After a short break, UAE will face China on June 7 before taking on the Philippines on June 9 at the Bayuemas Oval.

The quarterfinals are scheduled for June 10, while the semifinals will take place on June 12. The tournament will conclude on June 13 with the third-place playoff and the final.

Big Opportunity for UAE Women’s Cricket

Under the leadership of Esha Oza, UAE will be hoping to continue their rise in women’s cricket on the Asian stage.

With several experienced performers in the squad and an important Asia Cup qualification spot on the line, the team will be aiming to make a strong impact in Malaysia.