Prior to the ODI World Cup Qualifiers, Chaminda Vaas applied for the position of head coach of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national team. The Emirates Cricket Board has set the application deadline for June 26, one day before the UAE’s final group stage match at the Qualifier in Zimbabwe.
Notably, Mudassar Nazar assumed temporary control after Robin Singh’s departure in March 2023. Nevertheless, with Nazar’s term drawing to a close, it is expected that Vaas will fill the vacancy. Vaas stated that he has been carefully observing the UAE team and that he believes he could assist the squad in developing a mentality for upcoming competitions.
“Recently, I’ve been following the UAE‘s fortunes, and their team is very strong, with a good mix of young players. Their side is well-balanced. I believe they require motivation to advance to the next level. Vaas told ‘The National’ that some of the players are exceptionally accomplished and capable of competing with players from other nations.
Chaminda Vaas Vaas elaborated on his vision for the national team and added that franchise cricket would assist them in competing against other Asian teams and ultimately in the World Cup.
“There is an abundance of franchise cricket around the globe, and the boys are eager to participate in it. In the interim, they will also compete for the Emirates team against the other premier boards in Asia. I believe UAE has a strong chance of competing with the best Asian teams,” said Vaas.
“My first objective would be to contend in the Asia Cups against subcontinental nations, followed by the World Cup. You need to approach the guys differently. Not everyone is equal, but I want to assist the UAE players play as a team,” he added.