The Super Six stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025 continues with an exciting battle between Japan vs UAE in Match 9.
Both sides are eager to strengthen their standing in the Super Six table and move one step closer to securing a World Cup berth.
This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, featuring Japan’s disciplined bowling unit against UAE’s aggressive batting lineup.
Also read- Today Match Predciton: Oman vs Nepal Super Six, Match 8, 2025
Japan vs UAE: Match Details
- Match: Super Six – Match 9
- Teams: Japan vs United Arab Emirates
- Date: 16 October 2025
- Time: 4:00 PM Local Time (IST Equivalent)
- Venue: Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1), Oman
Japan vs UAE: Tournament Context and Recent Form
The 2025 Asia and EAP Qualifier is a crucial tournament, determining which teams will advance to the next stage of World Cup qualification. Every match in the Super Six phase carries high significance.
United Arab Emirates (UAE):
UAE have shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency in this tournament.
Their batting, led by captain Muhammad Waseem, has been dynamic, while bowlers like Junaid Siddique and Zahid Ali have kept things tight in the middle overs.
However, they’ve faced some close defeats that have exposed their middle-order vulnerability.
Japan:
Japan have been one of the most improved associate teams in recent years.
They’ve displayed remarkable discipline and team spirit in this qualifier, earning victories over sides like Samoa.
Skipper Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and all-rounder Sabaorish Ravichandran have been standout performers.
Despite limited international exposure, Japan’s balance and composure make them a tough opponent for any team.
Venue and Pitch Report
The Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1) in Oman is known for its even bounce and slightly spin-friendly surface.
Early in the innings, pacers can find some swing, but as the match progresses, spinners tend to dominate.
Batting first and putting up a score around 160–170 has been the most successful formula in recent matches here. Teams chasing under lights have occasionally struggled due to slower pitch conditions.
The weather in Oman is expected to be dry with moderate humidity — ideal for cricket, though players will need to manage fitness levels in the heat.
Probable Playing XI
Japan (Probable XI):
- Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming (c)
- Shoma Slater
- Abhishek Anand
- Sabaorish Ravichandran
- Esam Rahman
- Benjamin Ito-Davis
- Charles Hinze
- Ibrahim Takahashi
- Reo Sakurano-Thomas
- Declan Suzuki
- Alexander Patmore (wk)
United Arab Emirates (Probable XI):
- Muhammad Waseem (c)
- Jonathan Figy
- Alishan Sharafu
- Rahul Chopra (wk)
- Harshit Kaushik
- Dhruv Parashar
- Muhammad Arfan
- Zahid Ali
- Haider Ali
- Junaid Siddique
- Muhammad Farooq
Japan vs UAE: Team Analysis
Japan – A Rising Force in Asian Cricket
Japan’s biggest strength lies in their team cohesion. While they may not boast big names, their all-round balance makes them competitive.
Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming provides stability at the top, while Ravichandran and Ito-Davis add experience in the middle.
Their bowling attack, featuring Takahashi and Sakurano-Thomas, has been economical and effective in restricting opposition totals.
UAE – Experienced but Inconsistent
UAE, on the other hand, have more international exposure. Captain Muhammad Waseem remains their key player — an aggressive opener capable of changing the game quickly.
Their batting depth is solid, but middle-order collapses have cost them matches. The bowling unit, led by Junaid Siddique and Haider Ali, needs to strike early to put pressure on Japan’s batsmen.
Japan vs UAE: Key Player Battles
- Muhammad Waseem vs Reo Sakurano-Thomas: A duel between power and precision. Waseem’s intent to dominate early could be tested by Sakurano-Thomas’ disciplined line.
- Ravichandran vs Haider Ali: Japan’s spin maestro against UAE’s reliable all-rounder. Middle overs could determine the match outcome.
- Kadowaki-Fleming vs Junaid Siddique: The battle between a calm captain and UAE’s most dangerous pacer will be crucial in the Powerplay.
Japan vs UAE: Head-to-Head Record
There is no prior official T20 international head-to-head record between Japan and UAE. This makes the encounter even more intriguing as both teams enter with unknown variables and fresh tactical plans.
Today Match Prediction: Japan vs UAE
This contest looks balanced on paper. UAE hold more experience, but Japan’s unity and form cannot be ignored.
The Al Amerat pitch tends to reward disciplined bowling and smart batting rather than pure aggression, which could favor Japan’s style.
Predicted Score:
- UAE: 155–165
- Japan: 160–170
Likely Result:
Japan to win by 4 wickets or within 10 balls to spare, based on recent form and adaptability.
Japan vs UAE: Fantasy Tips (Optional Insights)
- Captain Choice: Muhammad Waseem / Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming
- Vice-Captain Choice: Sabaorish Ravichandran
- Must-have Players: Ravichandran, Waseem, Junaid Siddique, and Ito-Davis
FAQ’s
When will Japan vs UAE Super Six Match 9 take place?
The match is scheduled for 16 October 2025 at 4:00 PM Local Time in Oman.
What is at stake in this Super Six match?
This match is crucial as it could determine who stays in contention for a World Cup qualification spot from the Asia & EAP region.
Who are the key players to watch?
For UAE: Muhammad Waseem and Junaid Siddique.
For Japan: Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and Sabaorish Ravichandran.
Which team has the upper hand?
UAE’s experience gives them a slight edge, but Japan’s balanced approach and momentum could tilt the game in their favor.
What are the pitch conditions expected for the match?
The pitch at Al Amerat is expected to be moderately slow with assistance for spinners. Batting first and posting around 170 will be ideal.