Haider Shah Replaces Muhammad Zohaib in UAE T20 World Cup Squad

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved wicketkeeper-batter Haider Shah as a replacement for Muhammad Zohaib in the UAE squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Zohaib was sent home ahead of UAE’s match against New Zealand on Tuesday, with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) initially citing “disciplinary reasons” for his withdrawal. The board added that more details would be provided in due course.

However, in its official statement confirming the squad change, the ICC said Zohaib was withdrawn “due to player mental well-being and team welfare issues.”

Shah, 24, brings international experience to the side, having featured in 18 T20 Internationals. He averages 19.25 with the bat and has a strike rate of 116.66 in the format.

In Zohaib’s absence, UAE posted 173 for 6 in their tournament opener against New Zealand in Chennai. The total proved insufficient as New Zealand openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen chased down the target in just 15.2 overs without losing a wicket.

UAE will now shift base to Delhi for their remaining group-stage fixtures. They are scheduled to face Canada on February 13, Afghanistan on February 16, and South Africa on February 18 as they look to revive their campaign.