Chaya Mughal, the ex-leader of the team currently recognizes as Development Cricket Officer in Board. The UAE’s second consecutive loss in the Women’s Asia Cup in Sri Lanka on Sunday was against a strong Indian team, but it does not diminish the advancements made in women’s cricket in a short time.
Esha Oza and her team nearly made it to the Women’s T20 Cup earlier this year. Their consecutive participation in the continental showpiece is their second appearance at the Women’s Asia Cup in 2024.
Putting together a team of female cricketers was once more difficult than convincing cricket-obsessed Indians to play baseball in this country, making it a noteworthy accomplishment.
Chaya Mughal, the team’s ex-leader currently serving as the Women’s Development Cricket Officer in the Emirates Cricket Board, has witnessed everything.
When she arrived in the UAE for a job in 2010, Mughal, a former domestic cricketer in India, was unaware of the sport’s presence in the country.
The versatile player later became the captain of the national team before stepping down to focus on growing the sport at the grassroots level.
The prestigious ICC Associate Member Women’s Performance of the Year award was won by her team and the cricket board for their dominant performance in the qualifying tournament for the ongoing Asia Cup, thanks to their hard work.
Mughal stated that the UAE women’s cricket team has made significant progress at the associate level and has promising prospects.
A. Congratulations on receiving the ICC award. What implications does this have for women’s cricket in the UAE?
It is always a great accomplishment to win awards of such high prestige, and receiving an award for performance is particularly satisfying. It indicates that we are moving forward in the correct path. Management, development, and the team have all worked together towards a shared objective, leading to a beneficial outcome overall. The successful development of cricket in the UAE is definitely flourishing, and this achievement is of great importance to us all.
B. Over the past three to four years, the women’s cricket team has significantly advanced. What is your opinion on the key to this impressive advancement?
Hard work is the main reason for the noticeable improvement of the UAE women’s cricket team in recent years. The only secrets that matter are dedication and effort, nothing hidden. The rise in girls’ involvement at the grassroots level shows progress, with around 400-500 young girls frequently taking part in training sessions. This considerable involvement has greatly affected the team’s success. The national team can play with confidence thanks to the strong upcoming bench strength. Furthermore, acknowledgement should be given to the coaches and players for their tireless dedication both on and off the field. Their commitment to executing strategic initiatives and turning them into effective on-field outcomes is what really propels the team’s achievements.
C. What differences have you observed at the grassroots level since starting your new position at the Emirates Cricket Board?
The “Get into Cricket” initiative for girls has resulted in notable improvements at the grassroots level. In recent years, this program has been very successful, providing two free sessions per week in convenient locations in Dubai and Sharjah. The previous year, the initiative effectively drew in and nurtured a group of 300-400 young female cricket players in the UAE, who were actively engaged in six competitions and a junior indoor world championship. Furthermore, free clinics have also been held in approximately 35-40 schools in Dubai and Sharjah, effectively encouraging the sport and involving young talents. Additionally, the initiative has formed girls’ cricket teams in around 10-12 schools in Dubai and Sharjah, showing its effectiveness in encouraging interest and involvement in cricket among young female players. Significant achievements include three players being promoted to the senior national team, while approximately 7-8 players have earned positions in the national training camp. These accomplishments demonstrate the effectiveness of the program in developing talent and promoting growth in the sport. The programme’s positive influence can be seen in how it motivates other girls to take up cricket, showcasing the possibilities of gaining recognition and achieving success in the sport. I am pleased and proud to see more girls taking up a sport that I hold dear.
D. With the increasing participation of young girls in cricket in the UAE, is it possible for the country to qualify for a World Cup in five or 10 years?
Being unable to give a precise timeline, the UAE women’s team could advance and strive for qualification in the near future with careful planning, allocated resources, and ongoing backing. By concentrating on developing talent, offering chances for growth, and fostering a competitive environment, I think the team is on track to qualify for the World Cup.