UAE cricketer allegedly removed from T20I squad over Pakistani roots

The ongoing T20 World Cup in the UAE has been overshadowed by controversy after UAE opening batsman Mohammed Zohaib was removed from the national squad midway through the tournament.

Zohaib, who has Pakistani heritage, had featured in matches played in Chennai, India, before his sudden exclusion.

The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed his removal in a brief statement, citing alleged disciplinary violations, but said further details would be provided at a later stage. No additional clarification has since been issued.

The cricketer has strongly rejected the allegations, claiming that his removal was based on discrimination linked to his nationality rather than misconduct.

“I was dropped from the squad because of my heritage,” Zohaib told reporters, alleging that members of the UAE team management, whom he claims are of Indian origin, acted unfairly against him.

Zohaib further alleged that coaching staff asked him to falsely claim an injury to justify his departure from the tournament. He said that when he refused, he was warned that his cricketing career could be jeopardised.

“Later, I was told to leave due to my mother’s health, but no clear explanation was ever given,” he said.

The former UAE opener has now called for a formal investigation by both the ECB and the International Cricket Council (ICC), stressing that the issue goes beyond his personal case.

“This is not just about me,” Zohaib said. “It’s about fairness, transparency and equal treatment in international cricket.”