Yasir Arafat Embarks on New Coaching Role with UAE for 2026 T20 World Cup
Former Pakistan all-rounder Yasir Arafat continues to be a globetrotting figure in cricket, seamlessly transitioning from a journeyman player to a respected coach. Recently appointed as the bowling coach for the UAE national team ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, Arafat brings a wealth of experience to the role. At 43, he has completed a Level 4 coaching programme with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and has been coaching full-time since his retirement in 2016.
Arafat's Impressive Coaching CV and Early T20 Influence
With a career spanning two decades and 207 first-class matches, Arafat was a member of Pakistan's victorious 2009 T20 World Cup squad under Younis Khan. Reflecting on his playing days, he chuckles at being ahead of the T20 curve, stating, "Was I ahead of the T20s?" He attributes his adaptability to early skill development, which allowed him to thrive as an all-rounder in the fast-paced format.
Post-retirement, Arafat immediately pursued coaching qualifications, starting with ECB Level III and working at Eton College in London. His coaching journey includes roles as a bowling coach for Hong Kong, high-performance coach for Pakistan, and bowling consultant with South Africa during the Champions Trophy. He has also gained valuable experience with Surrey, Sussex, and Perth Scorchers, building a diverse and impressive resume.
Insights on T20 Cricket Evolution and Bowling Strategies
Arafat, who took 1,504 wickets across formats, emphasizes that T20 cricket has no fixed formula for success. He advises bowlers to develop a wide range of variations, such as yorkers, slower bouncers, and wide deliveries. "There is no fixed length or formula for success in the T20 format, but the smarter you are with your skill set, the better your chances of thriving," he explains.
He also addresses the increasing injury rates among fast bowlers, citing the demanding modern calendar and high fitness standards. "Injuries are inevitable in modern-day cricket because the game is much more demanding now," Arafat notes, highlighting how players often choose specific formats to manage workloads and avoid long-term injuries.
The Impact of IPL and Format Specialization
Having witnessed cricket's evolution over 20 years, Arafat discusses how the Indian Premier League (IPL) has reshaped the sport. "After the emergence of the IPL, the T20 format became more lucrative," he says, leading to bowlers being labeled as format specialists. Red-ball bowlers chase legacy, while white-ball specialists focus on franchise success and financial rewards, ultimately leaving the choice to the player.
UAE's Prospects and Arafat's Coaching Philosophy
The UAE team faces a challenging group in the 2026 T20 World Cup, including Afghanistan, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa. However, Arafat is optimistic about the talent pool, noting strengths in both spin and fast bowling departments. "We have got a talented group of players," he says, though many lack experience. His advice to them is to assess conditions carefully, have clear plans, and maintain an open mind for continuous improvement.
As Arafat prepares the UAE squad for the upcoming tournament, his journey from a T20 pioneer to a seasoned coach underscores his dedication to cricket's global growth and development.
