Muhammad Waseem, a cricketer born in Pakistan but playing for the UAE, achieved a significant milestone by winning the ICC Player of the Month award, beating out big names like Shaheen Afridi. This award is a first for a UAE player and has brought great joy to Waseem.
Waseem’s recognition came for his outstanding batting performance in April. Since his international debut in October 2021, Waseem has been a key player for the UAE. He has scored 1289 runs in ODIs and an impressive 1977 runs in T20Is, making him the highest run-scorer for the UAE in the shortest format.
In April, during the ACC Men’s Premier Cup, Waseem showcased his skill with the bat. Despite a tough start in the tournament against Kuwait, where he got out for a duck, he quickly regained form. In the following matches, he scored crucial runs, including scores of 65, 45, and 48.
The highlight of Waseem’s month came in the final of the ACC Premier Cup against Oman. After Oman chose to bowl first, Waseem took charge and played aggressively, scoring a magnificent century. His innings of 100 runs included six fours and an impressive seven sixes, helping UAE set a formidable total of 204/4. Oman could only manage 149/9 in response, giving UAE a 55-run victory. Waseem’s performance earned him the Player of the Series award for his total of 269 runs in the tournament.
Waseem hopes that his recognition by the ICC will inspire other players, especially from associate nations like the UAE. He expressed pride in his team’s performance in the ACC Premier Cup, where their goal was to qualify for next year’s Asia Cup. Waseem also emphasized his personal satisfaction in leading the team from the front, particularly in the final. He aims to continue delivering with the bat and setting an example for UAE cricket in the exciting times ahead, including preparations for the Asia Cup.
