UAE set to host ICC women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be looking to make the most of home conditions while drawing inspiration from teams at the recent ICC men's T20 World Cup 2021 as they commence their campaign in the women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier against Malaysia on Monday.

Teams are only two steps away from playing in the ICC women's T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa. The winners of the six-team tournament here get to play in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier 2022 from which teams can book their places for South Africa.

UAE captain Chaya Mughal can feel the anticipation as the two ICC Academy grounds in Dubai Sports City get ready to host Bhutan, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Malaysia and Nepal.

"Playing in the World Cup is a dream for every cricketer and knowing that it's just two steps away will certainly push everyone to give their best. The team is anticipating a successful campaign with all the positive vibes around," said Chaya Mughal in an ICC release.

"It has been extremely motivating to see the Associate teams in World Cups. We had five Associate teams in the Men's T20 World Cup this time and two of them made it to the Super 12s. This is certainly a platform where each player dreams to showcase their talent," she added.

Bhutan skipper Yeshey Choden is hoping to put behind the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic as they get to play in an ICC event.

"Playing in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifiers is a dream come true. We had to train under strict COVID-19 protocols, which was challenging, as most of us were in-country service as volunteers. We worked hard to get match fit and I am very thankful to our Board for giving us the opportunity and investing in us," said Yeshey Choden.

"Till now we had been playing Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournaments where only teams from Asia compete. But playing in ICC events gives us a chance to play against teams from around the globe. So, winning this tournament gives us more opportunities to showcase our talent and we are looking forward to it," she added.

Kuwait captain Ana Sharif Tariq is hoping to inspire more girls to take to the sport by performing well.

"We are overwhelmed, to be honest. The girls have been working hard, they are pumped up and determined to do their best. We are looking forward to utilizing this opportunity to gain some much-needed exposure and bring glory to Kuwait," said Ana Sharif Tariq.

"We hope to inspire many young girls and women to take up the sport, adding to the overall pool of players which will enhance development domestically and pave way for a brighter future in women's cricket," she added.

Malaysia captain Winifred Anne Duraisingam sees this event as a major opportunity for her team.

"It's a huge chance for Malaysia to move to the next level, which is the World Cup 2023. As captain, I am excited to lead my team to the next step," said Duraisingam.

"As a team, we have gained more knowledge in every way possible. It is also good to see Associates move a step closer to a higher level of cricket. It will be an honor for us to stand alongside other Associate Members and play in the World Cup," she added.

Nepal captain Rubina Chhetri sees the tournament as an opportunity of a lifetime.

"I am very excited to play in the Qualifiers because it has been a dream for me and my team for the past 15 years to qualify and play in the World Cup. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us," said Chhetri.

Hong Kong captain Ka Ying Chan can't wait to get back to international cricket.

"I'm really looking forward to it! It's been so long since we've been able to play international cricket. I can't wait to get back out there. It's an honour to take part (in the tournament) and it's a great opportunity to play against different countries," said Ka Ying Chan.