Alishan Sharafu: A Rising Star's Recent Exploits on the Cricket Field :

Alishan Sharafu, the dynamic all-rounder from the United Arab Emirates, has been consistently making headlines with his impressive performances in both T20 and One Day International cricket. Born on January 10, 2003, this 22-year-old Kerala-born cricketer has quickly become a pivotal figure for the UAE national team, showcasing his batting prowess and right-arm medium-seam bowling. His recent outings highlight a player in excellent form, contributing significantly to his team's efforts on the international stage.

Sharafu's dedication and talent have earned him a respectable 72nd position in the ICC T20 batting rankings, a testament to his growing influence in the shortest format of the game. He continues to be a player to watch, demonstrating a blend of skill, composure, and an attacking mindset that excites fans and analysts alike. His journey from an aspiring young talent to a recognized international cricketer is inspiring.

A Closer Look at Sharafu's Latest Performances and Career Milestones :

In October 2025, Sharafu delivered a standout performance in a T20 match against Samoa at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, smashing an impressive 86 runs off just 51 balls. This knock further solidified his reputation as a formidable T20 batsman, adding to his career total of 1,229 runs from 45 T20 matches at an average of 34.

His T20 career statistics are notable, including 115 fours and 55 sixes, demonstrating his ability to find boundaries consistently. While his recent ODI outing in May 2025 against Scotland saw him score 11 runs off 25 balls, his overall ODI career reflects a player still developing, with 369 runs from 24 matches at an average of 17.

Sharafu's ability to perform under pressure was also evident during the Asia Cup 2025, where he faced world-class bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. Despite the UAE's challenging match against India, Sharafu showed glimpses of his potential, facing Bumrah with resilience and even managing to find a boundary off him. This experience against top-tier opposition is crucial for his development and speaks volumes about his courage and skill.

The Road Ahead: Future Prospects for UAE's All-Rounder :

Alishan Sharafu's journey began at a young age, representing the UAE at Under-16 and Under-19 levels, and his leadership qualities were highlighted when he captained the UAE team in the 2022 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. His consistent growth led to a year-long part-time contract with the Emirates Cricket Board in December 2020.

Looking forward, Sharafu's involvement with teams like the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ILT20 in 2024 further underscores his potential to become a leading figure in international cricket. With his blend of batting talent, right-arm medium-seam bowling, and proven ability to perform on big stages, Sharafu is undoubtedly a bright prospect for UAE cricket, with many more successful years anticipated.