Why has UAE sent Pakistan-origin Muhammad Zohaib home a day before T20 World Cup Opener?

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In a surprising development on the eve of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cricket team has been rocked by the sudden departure of batter Muhammad Zohaib.

The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) announced on February 9, 2026, that Zohaib had been sent home from Chennai, India, due to "disciplinary reasons."

The announcement came just hours before UAE's opening Group B clash against New Zealand, leaving the team to regroup under pressure. The ECB's brief statement indicated of disciplianary reasons, but sources suggest the issue stems from an internal team matter.

Why is Zohaib sent home by UAE?

There have been reports that the UAE player was not gelling with the team after arrival in India. He has also been accused of excessive drinking and personal life issues, which were feared may go out of proportion.

The player has, in turn, accused the ECB of discrimination and has labelled his departure as a result of his Pakistan roots. The decision has sparked speculation, with reports indicating Zohaib alleges the action was influenced by nationality bias, particularly amid perceived India-Pakistan tensions within the diverse UAE squad.

Zohaib has been a key middle-order contributor. In 16 T20 Internationals, he has amassed 303 runs at an average of 20.20 and a strike rate of 103.76.

During recent warm-up matches, Zohaib featured prominently, scoring 19 off 26 balls at No. 3 against Nepal and batting at No. 9 in a low-scoring defeat to Italy, where UAE were bundled out for 81.

UAE captain dismisses rumours

UAE's team comprises players from various backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, and local Emirati origins, which has occasionally led to discussions about team harmony.

UAE captain Muhammad Waseem addressed the media ahead of the match, emphasizing unity: "There is no India-Pakistan. We are playing for the UAE and we are always treating ourselves like a family. We are living like a family, friends. We are spending time together, eating together."