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Bahrain national cricket team
Bahrain national cricket team
Bahrain national cricket team
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This article is about the men's team. For the women's team, see Bahrain women's national cricket team.
Bahrain
AssociationBahrain Cricket Association
Personnel
CaptainHaider Butt
CoachSarfaraz Ali
ChairmanMohammed Mansoor
International Cricket Council
ICC statusAssociate member[1] (2017)
Affiliate member (2001)
ICC regionAsia
ICC Rankings Current[2] Best-ever
T20I 29th 25th (13 Mar 2025)
International cricket
First internationalv.  Kuwait at Kuwait City; 30 October 1979
T20 Internationals
First T20Iv  Saudi Arabia at Oman Cricket Academy Ground, Muscat; 20 January 2019
Last T20Iv  Thailand at Terdthai Cricket Ground, Bangkok; 27 February 2026
T20Is Played Won/Lost
Total[3] 120 69/45
(3 ties, 3 no results)
This year[4] 8 3/5
(0 ties, 0 no results)
T20 World Cup Qualifier appearances2[a] (first in 2022)
Best resultSemi-finals (2023)

List A & T20I kit

As of 27 February 2026

The Bahrain national cricket team represents the Kingdom of Bahrain in international cricket. The team is organised by the Bahrain Cricket Association (BCA), which became an ICC affiliate member in 2001[5] and an associate member in 2017.[1]

History

[edit]

Early history

[edit]

Cricket has been played in Bahrain since the early 20th century. The earliest instance of Cricket was recorded in 1932 when a match was played between Royal British Airforce and Royal British Navy.[6] In 1935, the Awali Cricket Club was formed by the then British Oil Company which is now BAPCO – Bahrain Petroleum Company.[7]

The Bahraini national side made its first international appearance in 1979, at an invitational tournament with Kuwait, Qatar, and Sharjah (one of the United Arab Emirates).[8]

20th century

[edit]

Its first appearance in an Asian Cricket Council tournament came at the 2004 ACC Trophy in Malaysia; since then, Bahrain has regularly appeared in ACC events. Bahrain has also made several appearances in World Cricket League tournaments, but was relegated back to regional tournaments after finishing fifth at the 2013 Division Six event.[9]

2018–present

[edit]

In April 2018, the ICC decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members. Therefore, all Twenty20 matches played between Bahrain and other ICC members after 1 January 2019 will be full T20Is.[10]

Bahrain made its Twenty20 International debut on 20 January 2019, defeating Saudi Arabia by 41 runs in the 2019 ACC Western Region T20 at Al Emarat Cricket Stadium, Muscat, Oman.[11]

20 January 2019
09:30
Scorecard
Bahrain 
176/4 (20 overs)
v
 Saudi Arabia
135/9 (20 overs)
Imran Ali 58 (53)
Usman Ali 1/24 (4 overs)
Muhammad Naeem 42 (36)
Babar Ali 2/18 (3 overs)
Bahrain won by 41 runs
Al Amerat Cricket Stadium, Muscat
Umpires: Afzalkhan Pathan (Oma) and Zahid Usman (Kuw)
Player of the match: Sarfaraz Ali (Bhr)
  • Saudi Arabia won the toss and elected to field.
  • First ever T20I match for Bahrain.

Tournament history

[edit]

ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier

[edit]
  • 2022: 6th place (Qualifier A)
  • 2023 (T20 WC Asia Regional Qualifier): Semi-final

ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League Play-off

[edit]

Asia Cup Qualifier

[edit]
  • 2018: Did not participate
  • 2020: Did not qualify

ACC Western Region T20

[edit]

ACC Trophy

[edit]
  • 2006: Quarter-finals

ACC Trophy Elite

[edit]
  • 2008: 7th place

World Cricket League

[edit]

ACC Twenty20 Cup

[edit]
  • 2009: 11th place

Current squad

[edit]

This lists all the players who have played for Bahrain in the past 12 months or has been part of the latest One-day or T20I squad.
Uncapped players are listed in italics

Name Age Batting style Bowling style Forms Notes
Batters
Sohail Ahmed 31 Right-handed One-day & T20I
Muhammad Younis 39 Left-handed Left-arm medium One-day
Fiaz Ahmed 38 Right-handed One-day & T20I
Ahmer Bin Nasir 32 Right-handed T20I
Umer Toor 34 Right-handed T20I Vice-captain
Yasser Nazir 35 Right-handed T20I
All-rounders
Haider Butt 28 Right-handed Right-arm off break One-day & T20I Captain
Imran Anwar 36 Right-handed Left-arm medium One-day & T20I
Junaid Aziz 32 Right-handed Right-arm leg break One-day & T20I
Waseeq Ahmed 39 Left-handed Slow left-arm orthodox One-day
David Mathias 34 Right-handed Right-arm medium One-day & T20I
Sai Sarthak 17 Left-handed Slow left-arm orthodox One-day
Wicket-keepers
Shahbaz Badar 34 Right-handed One-day
Imran Ali Butt 40 Left-handed T20I
Spin Bowlers
Abdul Majid 32 Right-handed One-day & T20I
Mohsin Zaki 28 Left-handed Slow left-arm orthodox T20I
Yousif Wali 32 Left-handed Slow left-arm orthodox T20I
Pace Bowlers
Rizwan Butt 35 Right-handed Right-arm medium One-day & T20I
Ali Dawood 33 Right-handed Right-arm medium One-day & T20I
Sathaiya Veerapathiran 34 Right-handed Right-arm medium-fast One-day & T20I
Imran Khan 35 Right-handed Right-arm medium T20I

Updated as of 22 September 2023

Records

[edit]

International Match Summary — Bahrain[12]

Last updated 27 February 2026

Playing Record
Format M W L T NR Inaugural Match
Twenty20 Internationals 120 69 45 3 3 20 January 2019

Twenty20 International

[edit]

T20I record versus other nations[12]

Records complete to T20I #3743. Last updated 27 February 2026.

Opponent M W L T NR First match First win
v. Full Members
 Ireland 1 0 1 0 0 19 February 2022
vs Associate Members
 Bhutan 7 7 0 0 0 23 November 2024 23 November 2024
 Cambodia 2 2 0 0 0 16 April 2024 16 April 2024
 Canada 3 1 2 0 0 24 February 2022 17 November 2022
 Germany 2 2 0 0 0 18 February 2022 18 February 2022
 Hong Kong 5 3 1 1 0 8 March 2023 31 October 2023
 Indonesia 8 7 1 0 0 19 February 2025 19 February 2025
 Japan 1 0 1 0 0 26 February 2026
 Kuwait 15 3 11 1 0 23 January 2019 11 March 2023
 Malawi 7 7 0 0 0 7 July 2025 7 July 2025
 Malaysia 10 5 5 0 0 15 December 2022 23 December 2022
 Maldives 3 3 0 0 0 21 January 2019 21 January 2019
 Oman 7 2 5 0 0 23 February 2020 15 November 2022
 Philippines 1 1 0 0 0 22 February 2022 22 February 2022
 Qatar 13 4 8 0 1 24 January 2019 25 February 2020
 Rwanda 4 4 0 0 0 18 July 2025 18 July 2025
 Saudi Arabia 8 6 2 0 0 20 January 2019 20 January 2019
 Singapore 6 4 0 1 1 16 December 2022 16 December 2022
 Tanzania 4 2 2 0 0 9 March 2024 9 March 2024
 Thailand 4 2 1 0 1 22 November 2024 30 November 2025
 Uganda 2 1 1 0 0 28 October 2024 28 October 2024
 United Arab Emirates 6 2 4 0 0 21 February 2022 21 February 2022
 Vanuatu 1 1 0 0 0 10 March 2024 10 March 2024

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Bahrain national cricket team

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Bahrain national cricket team represents the Kingdom of Bahrain in international cricket competitions, governed by the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF), which operates under the Bahrain Olympic Committee. As an associate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) since 2017—having initially joined as an affiliate member in 2001—the team competes primarily in limited-overs formats, including Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) following the ICC's granting of full T20I status to all associate members in 2018. Currently ranked 26th in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings with a rating of 119 as of late 2025, Bahrain has emerged as a competitive force in Asian and global associate cricket. Cricket's roots in Bahrain trace back to 1932 with an early match between British Air Force and Navy teams, leading to the formation of the Awali Cricket Club in 1935 by the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO); the country's first international fixture occurred in 1979. The BCF, revamped in 2021 with a new board and identity under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh , oversees a robust domestic structure featuring over 100 teams in national leagues and participation from more than 16 schools. Key early successes include winning the Middle East Cup in 2006 by defeating in the final and sharing the (ACC) Under-16 Tournament title that year. In ICC events, Bahrain made a strong debut by winning all five matches at the 2009 Division Six in , earning promotion to Division Five, where they finished second later that year with a standout 233-run victory over . The placed fourth in Division Five in 2010 and has since focused on T20I and ACC tournaments, including a group-stage appearance at the with a loss to the UAE. Recent highlights include a dominant 2025 tour with a 4-1 series win over , a 3-0 sweep of , and a triangular series victory against and . Notable players include all-rounder Imran Anwar, with over 1,000 T20I runs and 85 wickets, and batsman Haider Ali, contributing more than 1,400 runs.

History

Origins and early development

Cricket was introduced to in 1932 through the first recorded match, played between teams representing the Royal British Air Force and the Royal British Navy, marking the sport's initial foothold in the region among British . The formation of the Awali Cricket Club in 1935 by employees of the British Oil Company—later known as the (BAPCO)—represented a pivotal step in organizing local play, providing a dedicated venue and structure for enthusiasts in the oil-rich Awali area. From the to the , expanded through the establishment of additional early clubs and informal leagues, largely sustained by communities including British military and oil workers alongside growing South Asian populations, who adapted the game to makeshift pitches amid Bahrain's desert landscape. These efforts highlighted the sport's role as a social connector for , with matches often arranged to accommodate shifting work schedules in the burgeoning oil industry. Key figures in the early promotion of cricket included BAPCO officials, who leveraged company resources to support club activities, and British expatriates, whose enthusiasm helped sustain and popularize the game within isolated communities. This foundational period culminated in Bahrain's first international exposure on 30 October 1979, when the team played a match against in .

International debut and regional involvement

Bahrain's formal entry into organized began with the Bahrain Cricket Association gaining affiliate membership of the in 2001, which facilitated participation in (ACC) events. This milestone enabled the team to compete against other emerging Asian nations, marking a shift from informal regional matches to structured tournaments. The team's international debut in an ACC tournament came at the 2004 ACC Trophy in , , where Bahrain advanced to the quarter-finals from their group stage before an exit in the knockout phase. Building on this exposure, Bahrain returned for the 2006 ACC Trophy in , again reaching the quarter-finals after a competitive group stage that included a notable 35-run victory over the . In 2008, Bahrain competed in the upgraded ACC Trophy Elite format in , finishing in 7th place overall after securing the 7th-place playoff with a 99-run win against . This performance highlighted gradual improvements in batting depth, with players like Azeem-ul-Haq contributing significantly. The team also debuted in T20 cricket at the 2009 ACC Cup in the UAE, placing 11th after a strong 93-run victory over in the 11th-place playoff. Subsequent regional T20 events, such as the 2011 ACC Cup, saw Bahrain continue to build experience against stronger associates like and , achieving their first wins against such opponents. Bahrain's involvement extended to the ICC's pathway with their debut at Division Six in in 2009, where they finished 2nd with five victories, including a 232-run win over , earning promotion to Division Five. In 2010, at Division Five in , Bahrain placed 2nd, securing another promotion to Division Four. However, after finishing 5th and being relegated from Division Five in in 2012, Bahrain competed in Division Six in in 2013, where they struggled with only one win (against ) and finished 8th, leading to further relegation to Division Seven. Throughout the and early , key milestones included infrastructure developments, such as the establishment of dedicated training facilities by the BCA, which supported consistent regional participation and helped secure first wins against established associate teams like the UAE in friendly fixtures. These efforts laid the groundwork for Bahrain's attainment of full T20I status in 2018.

T20I status and modern achievements

In April 2018, the (ICC) granted full (T20I) status to all its member nations, enabling Bahrain to compete in official T20I matches for the first time. Bahrain's debut T20I came on 20 January 2019 against in the ACC Western Region T20 tournament at Al Amerat Cricket Ground in , where they posted 176/4 and restricted the opposition to 135/9, securing a 41-run victory. This milestone marked a significant step forward from their earlier involvement in regional ACC events, elevating the team's international profile. Bahrain achieved their highest T20I ranking of 25th on 18 March 2025, following strong performances in early-year tournaments, as per the official ICC standings. This peak position reflected consistent progress, with the team accumulating points through competitive results against similarly ranked associates. In the same period, Bahrain demonstrated their growing prowess by clinching the 2024/25 Tri-Nation T20I Series final against on 17 March 2025, chasing down 127 in 16.4 overs for an eight-wicket win with 20 balls to spare. Later, in the Tri-Nation T20I Series in July 2025, they dominated the final against , scoring 189/3 to bowl out the opposition for 95 and secure a 94-run victory, claiming the series title. The Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) expanded its efforts to by establishing the national women's team in 2021, rapidly building participation through domestic leagues and regional competitions. This initiative earned the ICC's 100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative of the Year award in June 2022, recognizing the BCF's work in creating a robust ecosystem from scratch, including the debut in the GCC Women's T20 Cup that year. On the infrastructure front, in 2024, His Highness Sheikh pledged support for a 35,000 square meter world-class stadium, complemented by a 71,000 square meter temporary ground to host international matches and foster development. Looking ahead, Bahrain is scheduled to tour for a three-match T20I series in November 2025, starting on 18 November at Udayana Cricket Ground in , providing further opportunities to build on their recent successes.

Governing body and status

Bahrain Cricket Association

The Bahrain Cricket Association (BCA), originally formed as the Cricket Bahrain Association in 1952 under the chairmanship of Vic Whitingham, serves as the national governing body for in the Kingdom of . It evolved significantly in 2021 when it was revamped and renamed the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh and the General Sports Authority, introducing a new board, logo, and unified structure to enhance professional management. The BCF's core responsibilities encompass overseeing player development programs, alongside establishing youth academies and training initiatives to nurture emerging talent. It also organizes domestic competitions, including the —a franchise-based T20 format launched in 2018—and Division 1 leagues, which feature over 100 teams, fostering competitive environments at club and school levels with participation from over 16 schools. Key initiatives under the BCF include the promotion of , which gained momentum since 2020 through the formation of the national women's team and targeted grassroots programs, culminating in awards like the ICC's 100% Female Cricket Initiative of the Year in 2025. The organization has forged partnerships with entities such as BAPCO Energies for historical and ongoing support in facilities development, including the establishment of a new ground in Sports City, Isa Town, and collaborates with the government via the Bahrain Olympic Committee to upgrade infrastructure like turf pitches. As of 2025, the BCF's leadership is headed by President Sami Mohammad Ali Mukhtar Ahmed Barakat Ali, appointed in January 2025, with Kishore Kewalram serving as General Secretary; the board includes key members such as and an advisory chairman role held by Mohammad Mansoor, ensuring strategic oversight under the . The BCF has significantly contributed to cricket's growth in Bahrain by hosting events like the (ACC) Men's U16 West Zone Cup and the ACC , while community outreach efforts include the ICC Criiio Cricket Festival for women and programs that attracted over 300 registrations for training in 2024. The BCF played a pivotal role in securing Bahrain's ICC associate membership status, initially as an affiliate in 2001 and full associate thereafter, unifying the sport under the Bahrain Olympic Committee.

ICC membership and rankings

Bahrain's cricket governing body, the Bahrain Cricket Federation (formerly Bahrain Cricket Association), joined the (ICC) as an affiliate member in 2001, marking the country's initial entry into the global cricket framework. In 2017, Bahrain was elevated to full associate membership status, which expanded its opportunities for international competition and development support. Following the ICC's decision to grant (T20I) status to all its full members starting in 2018, Bahrain activated this format, enabling official bilateral and tournament matches to count toward international records. As of 18 November 2025, Bahrain does not hold (ODI) status but is actively participating in the ICC Men's Challenge League Group B (2024-2026), a pathway tournament aimed at earning qualification for higher-level events and potential ODI recognition. In the , Bahrain holds the 26th position as of 18 November 2025, reflecting steady progress in the shorter format with 62 matches played and a rating of 120. The team achieved its highest ranking of 25th on 13 March 2025, demonstrating improved performances in regional and qualifier events, though it has experienced fluctuations, including dips to 30th earlier in the year. Full associate status has brought significant benefits to , including enhanced funding from the ICC's development programs to support infrastructure, coaching, and youth initiatives, as well as eligibility to compete in global qualifiers for events like the T20 World Cup. Compared to other (GCC) associates, 's timeline trails the , which gained associate membership in 1990, and , which achieved it in 2014, positioning as a newer entrant in the region's competitive landscape.

Tournament participation

Asian Cricket Council events

Bahrain's involvement in (ACC) events began with their debut at the 2004 ACC Trophy in , where they competed in Group B alongside , , and , marking their entry into regional competitions. The team advanced to the quarter-finals but were eliminated, finishing outside the top positions in a tournament won by the . This initial participation laid the foundation for Bahrain's regular presence in ACC tournaments, helping to build experience against regional rivals. In the 2006 ACC Trophy, also held in Malaysia, Bahrain again reached the quarter-finals, showcasing improved performance with notable contributions from batsmen like Azeem-ul-Haq. They posted competitive totals, including 270 for 5 against , but fell short against by 25 runs in the knockout stage, securing a respectable mid-table finish in the event ultimately won by the UAE. The tournament highlighted Bahrain's growing competitiveness in 50-over formats within the ACC structure. Bahrain also participated in the 2012 ACC Trophy Elite, finishing fifth. The 2008 ACC Trophy Elite saw Bahrain placed seventh after a mixed group stage in Group A, where they suffered defeats to the UAE but recorded a convincing 198-run victory over , with Azeem-ul-Haq scoring 79. They clinched the 7th place play-off by thrashing by 99 runs, demonstrating resilience in lower-stakes matches amid a field dominated by teams like , who claimed the title. This edition underscored Bahrain's challenges against top-tier ACC sides while affirming their mid-level standing. Bahrain's foray into T20 formats within ACC events started at the 2009 ACC Twenty20 Cup in the UAE, where they finished 11th. Group B losses to (by 84 runs) and a narrow 3-run defeat to were offset by a strong 93-run win over in the 11th place play-off, with Bahrain posting 196 for 4. The tournament, won by , exposed Bahrain's vulnerabilities in the shorter format but provided valuable exposure to high-scoring games. Subsequent participation in ACC Western Region T20 tournaments, such as the 2019 edition in , saw Bahrain secure key wins like a 41-run victory over , contributing to their development in regional T20 pathways. In the 2020 ACC Western Region T20, Bahrain competed but did not advance to the final stages. More recently, in the 2025 ACC Western Region T20, Bahrain topped with a 6-wicket win over , chasing 107 in 11.5 overs, though specific final outcomes remain part of ongoing regional progression. Bahrain's attempts to qualify for the through ACC pathways have been challenging. In the 2020 Asia Cup Qualifier cycle, they failed to advance from regional preliminaries, missing out on the main event amid a competitive field led by teams like UAE and . Notable upsets include a 2022 regional qualifier win over UAE by 2 runs, though in pure ACC events, Bahrain has occasionally troubled stronger opponents like UAE in group stages. In the , Bahrain finished fourth in Group B, with a notable 132-run win over but losses including an 8-wicket defeat to UAE. Overall, Bahrain's record in ACC events from 2004 to 2025 reflects steady progression, with approximately 35-40% win rates in regional tournaments based on key participations, emphasizing their role as a developing associate in qualification pathways. Wins against teams like and have been pivotal, often serving as gateways to broader ICC opportunities without dominating elite divisions. These performances have solidified Bahrain's status in Western cricket, fostering talent and infrastructure growth. Bahrain also competed in the 2023 .

International Cricket Council tournaments

Bahrain's involvement in (ICC) tournaments has primarily revolved around qualification pathways for the T20 World Cup and the now-defunct (WCL), reflecting the challenges faced by associate nations in progressing beyond regional levels. The team first entered the WCL system by winning Division Six in 2009 in , earning promotion to Division Five, where they finished fourth in 2010. In subsequent editions, Bahrain struggled in 2012 with a fifth-place result in Division Five, signaling early progression barriers due to inconsistent performances against stronger associates. The 2013 WCL Division Six marked a low point, where Bahrain finished sixth out of six teams in , suffering relegation after winning only one of five matches, including a narrow 15-run victory over . This outcome highlighted structural limitations for Bahrain, as the WCL's tiered format often trapped lower-ranked associates in cycles of without access to higher global events like the ODI . Overall, across WCL tournaments from 2009 to 2013, Bahrain played 20 matches, securing 8 wins and facing frequent eliminations that underscored their developmental stage as an emerging associate member. In the T20 format, Bahrain's ICC tournament debut came through qualifiers linked to Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events, which serve as gateways to global stages. At the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A in Oman, Bahrain finished sixth in a field of eight teams, winning two of seven matches but falling short of semi-final progression despite a strong net run rate in group stages. Building on this, in the 2023 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia Regional Final in Nepal—following qualification via ACC pathways—Bahrain advanced to the semi-finals, defeating Kuwait in the group stage before a 10-wicket loss to Oman ended their campaign, preventing direct entry to the global qualifier. Bahrain has also pursued the ODI pathway through the ICC Challenge League. In the 2023/24 Play-off tournament in , they competed among eight teams for promotion to the main Challenge League groups but finished outside the top four, winning three of seven matches yet unable to overcome higher-ranked opponents like and . This participation represented an attempt to establish List A status and vie for ODI qualification, though progression remained elusive amid competition from more established associates. In 2025, participated in the ICC-sanctioned Tri-Nation T20I Series against and , winning all four matches, including a 94-run final victory over and comprehensive wins over by 112 runs and 8 wickets. This unbeaten run elevated their ICC T20I rankings and provided momentum for the 2026 T20 World Cup qualification pathway, where they must navigate the regional qualifiers to reach the global stage, building on prior semi-final appearances to target a historic main tournament berth.

Personnel

Current squad

The Bahrain national cricket team's current squad for T20I and limited-overs formats as of November 2025 is captained by batsman Ahmer Bin Nasir, who has led the side in 30 T20I matches in 2025, with all-rounder Asif Ali serving as vice-captain. The squad comprises 15 players across batting, bowling, and all-rounder roles, announced on November 15, 2025, for the tour of . Prominent contributors include opening batsman , Bahrain's all-time leading T20I run-scorer with 1,533 runs across 64 matches, and pace bowler Rizwan Butt, the team's top wicket-taker with 122 dismissals at an average of 15.23. Additional key members include Imran Anwar, known for his contributions in batting and , and former Sarfaraz Ali, a versatile wicket-keeper batsman who provides depth in limited-overs setups. Recent inclusions stem from strong domestic performances in the 2024–2025 Bahrain Cricket Federation leagues. The group emphasizes T20I specialists suited to aggressive, fast-paced , though select players like Sohail Ahmed and Imran Anwar occasionally participate in List A fixtures for broader experience.
PlayerRoleNotable Contribution
Ahmer Bin NasirBatsman (Captain)Led team in 30 T20Is in 2025; key leader in recent tours.
Asif AliAll-rounder (Vice-captain)Left-hand batter and left-arm spinner; explosive performer.
Fiaz AhmedBatsmanConsistent middle-order batsman; strong in Asian events.
Naveen ShettyBatsmanEmerging opener with domestic promise.
Sohail AhmedAll-rounder1,533 T20I runs in 64 matches; leading run-scorer.
Prashant KurupWicket-keeper BatsmanReliable opener and keeper in recent series.
Imran AnwarAll-rounderVersatile contributor with bat and ball.
Junaid AzizBatsmanSolid middle-order support.
Rizwan ButtAll-rounder122 T20I wickets at 15.23 average; pace leader.
Ali DawoodBowlerKey fast bowler in recent tours.
Imran KhanBowlerFast-medium specialist.
Abdul Majid AbbasiBowlerLeft-arm spinner with control.
Asif Shaikh NanaBowlerLeg-break option.
Mohammad SalmanBowlerLeft-arm spinner.
Asif Javed Basher AhmedAll-rounderBowling all-rounder providing depth.

Coaching and support staff

The coaching and support staff of the Bahrain national team operates under the Bahrain Cricket Federation (BCF), emphasizing strategic development in T20 since the team's full ICC membership in 2018. The current head coach, , has been in the role since at least 2024, focusing on enhancing T20 tactics, including aggressive batting lineups and efficient powerplay execution. Kapoor, a former Indian first-class cricketer, has introduced data-driven training modules to improve player adaptability in high-pressure matches. Assistant coaches specialize in key areas to support Kapoor's vision. The support staff includes specialists in pace bowling, batting, and fielding, integrating specialized drills that have contributed to improved performances in recent series. The staff also includes a dedicated physiotherapist for and recovery, a performance analyst who utilizes BCF resources for match simulations, and a team manager coordinating within the federation's framework. Under Kapoor's leadership, the staff has implemented strategies evident in Bahrain's 2025 successes, such as the aggressive T20 batting approach during various series. Historically, the role has seen transitions, including Bhaskar Pillai in 2023, to align with modern associate nation demands.

Records and statistics

T20I performances

Bahrain has played 100 (T20I) matches since their T20I debut in 2019, recording 57 wins, 38 losses, 3 ties, and 2 no results as of November 18, 2025. This gives them a win percentage of approximately 58%, reflecting steady improvement in the associate cricket landscape. The team's early T20I phase from 2019 to 2021 was marked by limited participation and inconsistent results, with only a handful of matches yielding a sub-50% win rate amid challenges in regional tournaments. In contrast, demonstrated dominance in 2025, securing 24 victories in 29 matches, which boosted their overall record and elevated their ICC T20I ranking to a peak of 25th. Their highest team total came in February 2025, posting 216/4 against at the Udayana Cricket Ground in , securing a comprehensive win. 's highest successful chase stands at 172/4, achieved against in December 2022 at the UKM-YSD Cricket Oval. Performance varies by venue, with stronger results on neutral grounds in compared to limited home fixtures, where they maintain a positive but modest record due to fewer opportunities. Against top associate nations like the UAE, has a competitive but trailing head-to-head record of 2 wins in 7 encounters, including narrow defeats in recent Gulf T20I Championships. No direct T20I matches have been played against as of 2025. Key milestones include Fiaz Ahmed's first T20I century for , an unbeaten 105 off 57 balls against in July 2025 at the TCA Oval. 's ongoing tour of , starting with the 1st T20I on November 18, 2025, may add to these records.

Notable individual achievements

Sohail Ahmed stands as Bahrain's leading run-scorer in T20Is, amassing 1,533 runs across 64 matches at an average of 43.80 and a strike rate of 121.86, including 11 half-centuries that highlight his consistency as a middle-order batter. His standout performances include anchoring key chases and contributing significantly to Bahrain's batting depth in ICC events. Rizwan Butt holds the record as Bahrain's premier wicket-taker in T20Is with 122 dismissals in 76 matches, achieving this milestone as the first Bahraini bowler to reach 100 T20I wickets in July 2025. His best figures of 6/9 underscore his effectiveness as a right-arm medium pacer, while he uniquely claims four five-wicket hauls in T20Is, a feat unmatched by any other Bahraini player. Haider Butt has been instrumental as an and , leading Bahrain in 63 T20Is since 2021 and scoring 1,408 runs while taking wickets with his off-spin, including a half-century of 62 in a crucial match. Umer Toor, serving as and wicketkeeper, has provided vital stability behind the stumps in over 50 T20Is, effecting numerous dismissals that bolster Bahrain's fielding efforts. In the 2025 Rwanda Tri-Nation T20I Series, Asif Ali earned Player of the Match in the final against Malawi with 46 runs and two wickets, contributing to Bahrain's series victory and marking a high point in his all-round contributions. While specific ICC emerging player recognitions for Bahrainis remain limited, players like Fiaz Ahmed have gained attention with a highest score of 105* in T20Is, showcasing emerging talent from domestic leagues. For longevity, Imran Anwar leads with 89 T20I appearances since 2019, providing seasoned pace bowling with 85 wickets, while Junaid Aziz follows closely with 69 matches, emphasizing the depth of experienced players transitioning from domestic cricket.

References

  1. https://www.icc-cricket.com/about/members/associate/bahrain-cricket-federation
  2. https://www.espncricinfo.com/rankings/icc-team-ranking
  3. https://cricket.bh/
  4. https://www.newsofbahrain.com/bahrain/110199.html
  5. https://www.espncricinfo.com/team/bahrain-57
  6. https://www.bapco.net/en/page/Awali/
  7. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342522501_Cricket_an_oddity_in_the_Arab-Gulf_lands_or_a_mirror_of_an_enduring_South_Asian_diaspora
  8. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/asian-cricket-council-trophy-elite-2008-362120
  9. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/asian-cricket-council-twenty20-cup-2009-10-436109
  10. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cricket-league-division-six-2009-418156
  11. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cricket-league-division-five-2009-10-442686
  12. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cricket-league-division-five-2011-12-549642
  13. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-world-cricket-league-division-six-2013-597378
  14. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/acc-western-region-t20-2018-19-1171739/bahrain-vs-saudi-arabia-1st-match-1171752/full-scorecard
  15. https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1347971/Bahrain-cricketers-win-tri-series-title
  16. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/malaysia-tri-nation-t20i-series-2024-25-1475520/bahrain-vs-hong-kong-final-1475531/full-scorecard
  17. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/rwanda-tri-nation-t20i-series-2025-1495448/bahrain-vs-malawi-final-1495465/full-scorecard
  18. https://www.icc-cricket.com/media-releases/bahrain-estonia-namibia-nigeria-and-thailand-named-as-global-icc-development-awards-winners
  19. https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/ground-breaking-womens-league-in-bahrain-wins-female-cricket-initiative-of-the-year
  20. https://khksports.com/sports/cricket
  21. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/bahrain-in-indonesia-2025-26-1510175/indonesia-vs-bahrain-1st-t20i-1510178/live-cricket-score
  22. https://www.gulfweekly.com/Articles/37673//HOWZAT
  23. https://www.bna.bh/En/HHKhalidbinHamadappointsBahrainCricketFederationboard.aspx?cms=q8FmFJgiscL2fwIzON1%252BDsYxztzxv8CytVwIhHb6LLg%253D
  24. https://www.bahrainthismonth.com/magazine/features/mohammad-mansoor-bahrain-cricket-revolution
  25. https://www.newsofbahrain.com/sports/76886.html
  26. https://www.bapcoenergies.com/media-centre/press-releases/bapco-energies-named-presenting-partner-of-the-bahrain-championship
  27. https://www.instagram.com/p/C0etNzaqrsv/?hl=en
  28. https://cricket.bh/bcf-board/
  29. https://cricket.bh/news-events/page/5/
  30. https://www.facebook.com/cricketbahrain/posts/as-part-of-icc-womens-cricket-week-2025-the-bahrain-cricket-federation-bcf-proud/832401442637785/
  31. https://www.icc-cricket.com/rankings/team-rankings/mens/t20i
  32. https://www.icc-cricket.com/about/members/associate/united-arab-emirates-cricket-board
  33. https://www.icc-cricket.com/about/members/associate/oman-cricket
  34. https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/uae-win-third-acc-trophy-in-a-row-139580
  35. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/asian-cricket-council-trophy-elite-2008-362120/bahrain-vs-kuwait-7th-place-play-off-362151/match-report
  36. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/asian-cricket-council-twenty20-cup-2009-10-436109/bahrain-vs-china-11th-place-play-off-436141/live-cricket-score
  37. https://qatarcricketassociation.org/tournaments/acc-western-t20-oman
  38. https://www.cricketsky.com/cricket/acc-western-region-t20-s123/
  39. https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1033755/Bahrain-win-last-qualifying-match-against-UAE-but-fail-to-qualify-for-T20-World-Cup
  40. https://www.espncricinfo.com/team/bahrain-57/stats
  41. https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/bahrain-advance-to-2022-mens-t20-world-cup-global-qualifier
  42. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/individual-list-captains/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  43. https://www.facebook.com/cricketbahrain/photos/official-squad-announcement-for-the-upcoming-national-tour-the-bahrain-cricket-f/849245370953392/
  44. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/sohail-ahmed-964521
  45. https://www.howstat.com/cricket/statistics/players/PlayerOverview_T20.asp?PlayerID=7000
  46. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/anasim-khan-554063
  47. https://www.newsofbahrain.com/sports/104575.html
  48. https://www.instagram.com/p/DBqgFchofj8/?hl=en
  49. https://www.gdnonline.com/Details/1286526
  50. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/results-summary-283307
  51. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/team-series-results/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  52. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/year/team-results-summary/2025-2025/twenty20-internationals-3
  53. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/team-highest-innings-totals/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  54. https://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Countries/CountryStats_T20.asp?CountryCode=33
  55. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/team-results-summary/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  56. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/headtohead/team-match-results/united-arab-emirates-bahrain-27vs108/twenty20-internationals-3
  57. https://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Countries/CountryFirst100Scored_T20.asp
  58. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/bahrain-tour-of-indonesia-2025-1471814
  59. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/batting-most-runs-career/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  60. https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/teams/110777-bahrain-teamprofile
  61. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/bowling-most-wickets-career/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
  62. https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/umer-toor-1301600
  63. https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/rwanda-tri-nation-t20i-series-2025-1495448/bahrain-vs-malawi-final-1495465/live-cricket-score
  64. https://www.espncricinfo.com/records/team/individual-most-matches-career/bahrain-108/twenty20-internationals-3
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