In a historic moment for women’s cricket in the UAE, the national team has progressed to the semifinals of the Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers after a remarkable performance in the group stage held at Abu Dhabi. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the team, which made its international debut in July 2007 at the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Women’s Tournament but has never competed at a World Cup at the senior level.
Led by Esha Oza, the UAE women’s team is set to face Sri Lanka in the semifinals on Sunday, May 5, at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, with the winner securing a coveted spot in the final.
The UAE’s path to the semifinals was paved by a convincing 70-run victory over Vanuatu on the fifth day of intense qualifying matches. This triumph, coupled with Ireland’s win over the Netherlands, ensured the UAE’s progression to the next stage of the tournament. Ireland’s victory also propelled them to the top of their T20 World Cup Qualifier group.
With their net run rate significantly boosted, the UAE women’s team finds themselves on equal footing with the Netherlands, who were vying for the last semifinal spot. However, it was Ireland who clinched the opportunity to face Scotland in the second semifinal match after defeating the Netherlands by 54 runs.
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The ongoing 10-team qualifying competition will determine the final two teams that will advance to the main event, scheduled to take place in Bangladesh in September and October.
Here are the semifinal fixtures at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi:
- Ireland vs Scotland at 1:30 pm
- UAE vs Sri Lanka at 6:00 pm
In Friday’s round-up of matches:
- Scotland emerged victorious against Thailand by six wickets.
- Sri Lanka secured an 18-run victory against the USA.
- Ireland’s triumph over the Netherlands solidified their position at the top of the group standings.
