UAE captain Chaya Mughal signs off with victory against Namibia

Chaya Mughal is positive the UAE women’s team “can fly on their own” after bringing an end to her distinguished international career.

The all-rounder signed off her five-year stint as captain of the national team in fine style.

She oversaw a 19-run win over Namibia at Dubai International Stadium and took a wicket in the final over of the game.

It was the first match of a six-game T20 series between the two sides. This opening fixture served as a farewell for Mughal, with Esha Oza now set to take over the captaincy.

Aged 37, Mughal has been integral to the rapid advance of the women’s game in recent years.

Her influence will continue to be felt, as she will now devote her time to her role as the Emirates Cricket Board’s women’s development officer.

“When we started, the team was not in such a great form but now I feel they are very strong,” Mughal said. “They can fly on their own now.”

Her final match started in inglorious style. The UAE’s top order struggled to score and Mughal herself was run out for three after pulling out of a risky single to cover.

Theertha Satish, the non-striker, might have felt crestfallen at being at the wicket when her captain’s last trip to the batting crease ended in such fashion.

However, she remedied the situation by posting a half-century, which underpinned the home team’s total of 100-7 from their 20 overs.

The UAE players performed a guard of honour for their captain before heading out for their fielding session.

Then, after the hosts sealed victory by restricting their guests to 81-7, both sides created a tunnel and offered an ovation for Mughal.

UAE captain Chaya Mughal walks off the field after her final game in international cricket. Chris Whiteoak / The National

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