Emirates Cricket Board Vice-Chairman Khalid Al Zarooni has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the UAE women’s national cricket team for reaching a historic milestone by receiving One Day International (ODI) status from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the first time. This recognition will take effect on May 12, 2025, and will include five Associate Member nations for the 2025-2029 cycle.
Thailand and Scotland retained their ODI status by qualifying for the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier, while Papua New Guinea and the Netherlands kept their status through T20I rankings. The UAE won its spot as the highest-ranked Associate Member at the time of the ICC Women’s T20I annual rankings update, displacing the United States from the list of 16 ODI-status sides.
Al Zarooni lauded the UAE team’s dedication, praising captain Esha Oza, the players, and the support personnel for their persistent efforts. He highlighted the ECB’s ongoing efforts to grow the women’s game, such as talent hunt programs and improved facilities.
Captain Esha Oza described the honour as a great moment for everyone connected with UAE women’s cricket.
