What UB’s Playing XI Could Look Like Against QQ in Qualifier 2 of Abu Dhabi T10 2025

Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi has proven to be a venue in which small differences in margin create major consequences; therefore, the clash between UB and Quetta Qavalary in Qualifier 2 should be no different. Ironically, a format built on aggressive play and speed of run-scoring is at times lost to how many players a team selects. UB has much to worry about regarding the selection of their opening batsmen, Phil Salt and James Vince, who can destroy the first six overs of an innings with great authority. However, when looking back at UB’s previous T10 encounters, it is clear that an early loss of wickets can undo the best batting lineup in the world.

Opening Pair Dynamics: Salt and Vince at Work

The fact that UB relies on Salt and Vince at the top is no coincidence. Salt’s aggressive left-handed batting style will create a good contrast to Vince’s classical all-round right-handed game. While Salt and Vince have extensive international T20 league experience together, the slower phases of the Abu Dhabi pitch may limit how much they can attack when they are unable to rotate the strike. The next three overs will be key to this match; A tight spell with the new ball by Qatar Quick’s opening bowlers Muhammad Rohid and Fazalhaq Farooqi may force United Bank to reassess their use of pace and spin bowling throughout the innings.

Middle-Order Firepower: Tim David, Rovman Powell, Iftikhar Ahmed

Tim David and his rope-clearing from any area of the ground, with the pitch slowing down; Rovman Powell and his explosive finishing; Iftikhar Ahmed and his aggressive but controlled batting style  this is the look of the middle order that could turn the final into an accelerative challenge for United By Cricket rather than a game of “can we get there before the dew sets in?” Only if these three players click together will United By Cricket be able to take on the risks needed to chase scores aggressively and effectively in the middle overs, which have historically been the downfall of many teams playing knockout cricket.

All-Round Arsenal: Spin Meets Pace

The UB bowlers, Shepherd, Narine, Pollard, and Coles, bring a variety of tactics to the table as well as the firepower to attack. Narine’s ability with his off-spin is likely to be at its best on a surface that has some grip to it, and Coles’ ability to slow down the run rate by bowling slow left arm orthodox bowling may help strangle QQ in the middle to late overs. Shepherd and Pollard offer two different types of seam bowling and are capable of hitting sixes. They will allow UB to use a range of 10-over bowling combinations. However, the challenge for UB will be in balancing the workload of their bowlers. If they expose their spinners too much in dewy conditions in the evening, the chasing side of things may be able to take advantage of the wet outfield conditions.

Seam Attack: Rohid, Siddique, Farooqi

Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Rohid, and Fazalhaq Farooqi will provide a good base attack with their three pace bowlers, who can get the run rate up quickly at the start of the game. With Rohid offering a different line as a left arm swing bowler, Siddique creating pressure through steady bowling lines, and the ability for Farooqui to create an impact with his pace on top class batsmen it is important that UB get a strong foothold using this combination in the opening stages of the game so they can put pressure on the opposition before the spinners take over. Statistically, there has been a 70% success rate historically for teams that have dominated the power play in the first innings of knockout games in T10 cricket in Abu Dhabi. This supports how UB will be looking to approach the power play in this match.

Key Takeaway

UB’s XI balances firepower with flexibility: execution, not selection, will decide the result.

FAQs

What makes UB’s openers crucial in this match?

Salt and Vince set the tone for UB’s innings, with aggressive starts likely determining momentum.

Why is spin expected to play a decisive role?

The pitch slows as the game progresses, favouring Narine and Coles in middle and death overs.

How does dew influence the match outcome?

Evening dew eases batting while making bowling harder, giving chasing teams a slight advantage.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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