‘Lalchand Aims to Infuse Mumbai’s Tenacious Spirit into UAE’

NEW DELHI: Lalchand Rajput, the newly appointed head coach of the UAE cricket team, aims to instill a ‘Khadoos’ mindset in his players, emphasizing the importance of grinding out innings and valuing their wickets. Rajput, a former India international and manager during India’s T20 World Cup victory in 2007, is focusing on three major upcoming tournaments: the 2025 Asia Cup, the T20 World Cup 2026 qualifiers, and the potential qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup. His experience as a coach for various national teams has prepared him well for this challenge.

Rajput’s Vision for UAE Cricket

Rajput’s approach centers around fostering a mentality where players are encouraged to occupy the crease for longer periods. He believes that having a strong mental game is crucial, particularly after a player has crossed the 20-run mark. Rajput is determined to transform the culture within UAE cricket, making players more resilient and focused on their performance. He highlights the significant role that the ILT20 has played in enhancing the skills of UAE cricketers. By competing alongside international stars, local players are gaining invaluable experience and insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

Rajput’s ambitions for UAE cricket are ambitious yet achievable. With the UAE’s qualification for the 2025 Asia Cup secured after a decisive victory over Oman, there is a palpable sense of excitement and expectation. The coach’s strategy involves not only preparing the team for immediate competitions but also laying a foundation for long-term success, including the goal of qualifying for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Impact of the ILT20 on Local Talent

The ILT20 has significantly contributed to the development of UAE cricketers, according to Rajput. The opportunity to train and compete with international players has accelerated the growth of local talent in various aspects of the game, including batting, bowling, and fielding. Rajput notes that players are now more mentally prepared and unafraid of failure, which is essential for their development. The exposure to world-class cricketers has raised the standard of the game in the UAE and inspired younger generations to pursue cricket more seriously.

The recent Champions Trophy held in the UAE was another pivotal moment for local players, showcasing them in front of large crowds and providing them with the chance to learn from established stars. Rajput believes that witnessing matches featuring top players has motivated younger cricketers to aspire to play at a higher level. This momentum is reflected in the growing number of youngsters wanting to take up the sport, as participation in cricket camps and tournaments has surged.

Emerging Talents and Their Development

Rajput has identified several promising players in the UAE squad who are making significant strides. Tanish Suri and Alishan Sharafu are noted for their consistent performances, while Rahul Chopra, with his solid batting technique, is seen as a strong prospect. Among the bowlers, Simranjit Singh and Dhruv Parashar have caught Rajput’s attention for their skills and potential. These players have thrived in an environment that now encourages competition and consistency, thanks to the influence of the ILT20.

The coach emphasizes that players are now more serious about their performance, with a notable increase in competition among squad members. Rajput is confident that this will lead to more players making their mark on the national team. He points out that the emphasis on fitness and longer batting periods is reshaping the mentality of the players, leading to a more disciplined approach to the game.

Cultural Shift in UAE Cricket

Rajput is implementing a cultural shift to enhance the overall cricketing framework in the UAE. The introduction of red-ball cricket, previously absent, is aimed at teaching players to build innings and improve their batting temperament. This new focus on longer formats is vital for developing skills necessary for success in various match conditions. The ‘Khadoos’ approach, which emphasizes perseverance and valuing one’s wicket, is central to this transformation.

Rajput’s initiatives are already yielding positive results, with players showing a commitment to batting longer and avoiding careless dismissals. The mindset is shifting, and players are beginning to understand the importance of consistency and fitness. As the UAE prepares for key tournaments, Rajput’s leadership and vision are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of cricket in the region, paving the way for potential success on the international stage.

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