An opener against hosts UAE on Wednesday may feel routine for holders India, but for the Emirati side it is an occasion brimming with both pressure and opportunity. Former captain Khurram Khan, widely regarded as one of UAE’s greatest cricketers, has laid out a simple recipe for his countrymen: do not be intimidated by reputations.
“Don’t play the name, play the ball”
Khurram, who led UAE for a decade, said the key against India’s attack — particularly against Jasprit Bumrah — lies in not overthinking.
Yes, they have never played Bumrah, but my suggestion to (Muhammad) Waseem & Co will be don’t get bogged down by the names and just play the ball. Treat each delivery on merit and wait for the next ball – who knows, it may be a loose delivery for you to hit.
Khurram added that this is the same mantra he passes on at his academy. “Frankly, nobody is expecting you to beat India. Trust your training, skillsets. As underdogs, there should be no pressure. In this format, two or three good performances on a given day and you never know what might happen.”
A Decorated Career of Quiet Influence
A resilient top-order batter and useful left-arm spinner, Khurram was instrumental in UAE’s qualification for the 2015 ODI World Cup in Australia, scoring 425 runs in nine ODIs. He was named ICC Associate and Affiliate Cricketer of the Year in 2015, recognition of his consistency across formats.
T20 Familiarity, Local Conditions a Boost
Khurram believes UAE’s deep exposure to the shortest format could make them dangerous opponents.
The shortest format is most popular in the UAE, as most leagues in each emirate are played in it. The current bunch has done quite well, even beating Bangladesh in Sharjah. They also know these conditions like the back of their palm – so there is no reason why they can’t pull off a surprise or two.
UAE’s Group B also features Pakistan and Oman, sides the Emiratis have often faced.
Diaspora Buzz and Player Pride
The prospect of facing India has stirred excitement among Dubai’s large Indian community, and within the UAE team as well. Former opener Chirag Suri, vice-captain only a few years ago, spoke of the occasion’s significance.
See it’s like this: if you can’t play for India, play against India. If you can play well against them, then who knows – other doors will open. My only advice is to enjoy the moment and play your natural game. In my 10-year career, I never got to face India.
UAE as a future Asia Cup hub?
Looking beyond this edition, Khurram floated the idea of UAE as a permanent host of the continental event.
“It sounds like a plan. The UAE has proved its credentials time and again by hosting world-class events – Men’s and Women’s T20 World Cups, ICC Champions Trophy, IPL, PSL, and now their own ILT20. The assurance of an Asia Cup every two years could be a huge boost for local cricketers, at least till India and Pakistan sort out their issues.”
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