Today's Edition
KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
In a landmark moment for women's cricket, the UAE women's team has officially been granted One Day International (ODI) status for the 2025–2029 cycle – an achievement that UAE captain Esha Oza says is a "testament to the hard work and belief" shown by her team over the years.
The announcement by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which also includes Thailand, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, and Scotland as recipients or retainers of ODI status, marks a turning point in the global expansion of the women's game. With the addition of these associate nations, the total number of women's teams with ODI status now rises to 16.
"Getting ODI status is a massive step forward for us," said Oza even as the announcement came while the UAE is coincidentally in Bangkok, Thailand. "It's something we've been working towards, and to finally have it is a proud moment for everyone involved in UAE women's cricket," she said.
Oza's women played a quadrangular Twenty20 international series, which ended on Tuesday, just ahead of the Asia Qualifier for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, beginning on Friday. Oza has been leading by example on a consistent basis over the past year and a half, and that reflects in her also being adjudged the ICC Associate Women's Cricketer of the Year in January.
The UAE's ODI status was secured following their steady climb in the ICC Women's T20I rankings, where they overtook the United States to claim the 16th spot. This ascent not only showcases the UAE's growing strength in the shorter format but also underscores their eligibility to join the elite ranks of the ODI world.
Oza, however, said the significance of the accomplishment lies beyond just cricketing statistics. "This recognition is not only about performance but also about belief – belief that associate nations like us can compete, grow, and make a mark on the world stage," she said.
Oza also pointed to the broader impact of this elevation for women in sport across the region. "This achievement is bigger than just our team – it's a win for women's sport in the UAE and the Gulf. We hope it inspires more girls to take up cricket and believe they can represent their country at the highest level," she emphasised.
Elsewhere, teams like Scotland and Thailand gained ODI status through their performances at the 2026 Women's ODI World Cup Qualifiers in Pakistan, with Scotland recording notable wins, while Thailand struggled. Meanwhile, PNG and the Netherlands retained their status through their current ICC rankings.
While the USA women's team leads an ODI series against Zimbabwe, their inconsistency in recent years led to the loss of their ODI status – opening the door for rising teams like the UAE to step forward.
As the ICC continues to prioritise the development of the women's game, Oza remains focused on the path ahead. "This is just the beginning. Our goal is to not just be part of the conversation but to be real contenders on the global stage," she said.
In two weeks time, their men counterparts have been set up by Emirates Cricket Board for a two-match T20 internationals with Bangladesh, the matches to be played in Sharjah on May 17 and 19.
While the shorter format is being preferred over the ODIs, the UAE women will have to play at least eight ODIs in this four-year cycle to maintain the newfound status.
With momentum building from current fixtures in the T20 format, the UAE women's team is poised for an exciting chapter in its cricketing journey – one that could inspire a new generation of talent from emerging cricketing nations and more recognition for the national cricketers.
