Ahmed Raza Takes Over as UAE Head Coach After Lalchand Rajput Exit

A new era has begun for UAE cricket. Lalchand Rajput has stepped down as head coach of the men’s team, and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has moved quickly to name former captain Ahmed Raza as his successor. The board confirmed the change in an official press release on Friday, November 6.

Lalchand Rajput Steps Down After a Landmark Spell

Rajput’s departure closes a significant chapter for the national side. His tenure was marked by some of the biggest moments in recent UAE cricket history.

Under his guidance, the team qualified for the Asia Cup and the ICC T20 World Cup. It also secured a series win against Bangladesh, a result that raised the team’s profile.

Rajput’s Farewell Message

Rajput signed off with a warm note of thanks to the ECB, the management, the players and the support staff. He said the job had been deeply rewarding.

“My stint as UAE Men’s Head Coach was very rewarding and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the team. I sincerely thank the Emirates Cricket Board, the management, players and support staff for their cooperation, trust and support throughout my tenure. It has been a rewarding experience, and I will always cherish the relationships and memories built during this journey.”

Who Is Ahmed Raza?

Raza is a familiar face in UAE cricket. The 38-year-old represented the national side in 53 ODIs and 55 T20Is, and he also led the team in both formats.

His leadership record stands out. He captained UAE in 29 ODIs and 27 T20Is, which means he knows the pressure of the top job from the inside.

A Fast-Growing Coaching Résumé

Since retiring, Raza has built coaching experience in a short time. He has worked with Dubai Capitals in the DP World International League T20 and with Southern Brave in The Hundred.

He also spent about three years coaching the UAE Women’s National Cricket Team. In the 2025 season, he served as head coach of Dubai Capitals at the Global Super League.

Raza’s Vision for the UAE Men’s Team

Raza made his aim clear after the announcement. He wants to consolidate the progress of recent years and take the side further from there.

He thanked the ECB for the opportunity and said he understands what it means to represent the UAE at the highest level.

“I am honoured to have been chosen for this exciting role and look forward to beginning my new innings. I want to thank the ECB for granting me this opportunity. As a former national captain, I fully understand what it means to represent the UAE at the highest level.”

Experience Meets Youth

Raza also spoke highly of the squad he is inheriting. He believes it blends experienced campaigners with exciting young talent.

“The current team is full of highly skilled and experienced players as well as some exciting youngsters who will take the team forward. My aim will be to solidify some of the good work done in recent years and build further from there.”

What This Change Means for UAE Cricket

The timing is notable. UAE have enjoyed a productive stretch, with major tournament qualifications and a series win over a Full Member nation. Raza now has the task of keeping that momentum going.

His background as a player, captain and coach gives him a clear understanding of the dressing room. He also knows the squad’s strengths, and he has worked across franchise and national setups.

The ECB has opted for continuity with a familiar figure rather than an outside appointment. Fans will now watch closely to see how quickly Raza puts his stamp on the team and whether he can turn the foundations Rajput laid into bigger results.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Lalchand Rajput has stepped down as UAE men’s head coach.
• Ahmed Raza, 38, is the new head coach.
• The ECB confirmed the change on Friday, November 6.
• Rajput’s tenure included Asia Cup and T20 World Cup qualification and a series win over Bangladesh.

The next chapter of UAE cricket is now in the hands of one of its own, and the early focus will be on how Raza builds on a strong platform.