The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is just one day away, and teams are playing their final warm-up matches to gain confidence before the main tournament begins. Match 15 will see Italy face the United Arab Emirates at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Both teams have already played one warm-up match. Italy impressed with a solid win over Canada, while UAE struggled in their opening game against Nepal. This match will be important for both sides to finish their preparations on a positive note.
Match Preview
Italy
Italy have looked like one of the surprise packages in the warm-up matches. Their win against Canada showed good balance between bat and ball, with JJ Smuts playing a key all-round role. Captain Wayne Madsen adds experience and stability to the batting unit.
Italy’s squad suits Chennai conditions well, with several players comfortable against spin. They will be aiming to carry this momentum into the main tournament.
Key Strengths
- In-form batting unit
- Strong all-round options
- Confidence from recent win
Key Concerns
- Limited experience at global level
- Pressure in bigger matches
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
UAE had a disappointing start to their warm-up campaign, losing comfortably to Nepal. Their top order failed to settle, which put pressure on the middle order early in the match.
However, UAE have more experience playing in subcontinent conditions. Players like Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu will be crucial if they are to challenge Italy in this contest.
Key Strengths
- Experience in Asian conditions
- Several pace options
- Capable all-rounders
Key Concerns
- Poor recent form
- Top-order inconsistency
- Low confidence
ITA vs UAE Match Details
| Match Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-up Matches |
| Match | Italy vs UAE – Match 15 |
| Date | Friday, 6 February 2026 |
| Time | 03:00 PM IST |
| Venue | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
Head-to-Head Record
| Teams | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Italy | 1 |
| UAE | 0 |
| No Result | 0 |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Italy | W, W, W, W, W |
| UAE | L, L, L, L, L |
Weather & Pitch Report – Chennai
Weather
- Temperature: 26–28°C
- Humidity: 60–70%
- Rain: No rain expected
Pitch
- Batting-friendly early
- Spinners get good assistance
- Batting becomes difficult as pitch slows
- Average chasing success
MA Chidambaram Stadium – T20I Stats
| Record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 10 |
| Bat First Wins | 6 |
| Bat Second Wins | 3 |
| No Result | 1 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 151 |
| Highest Score | 189/4 |
| Lowest Score | 80/10 |
Predicted Playing XI
Italy
- Justin Mosca
- Anthony Mosca
- JJ Smuts
- Wayne Madsen (c)
- Harry Manenti
- Ben Manenti
- Gian Meade (wk)
- Marcus Campopiano
- Jaspreet Singh
- Syed Naqvi
- Zain Alix
UAE
- Aryansh Sharma (wk)
- Muhammad Waseem (c)
- Muhammad Zohaib
- Alishan Sharafu
- Mayank Kumar
- Harshit Kaushik
- Sohaib Khan
- Muhammad Arfan
- Muhammad Rohid Khan
- Junaid Siddique
- Simranjeet Singh
Dream11 Fantasy Tips
Small League (Safe Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Wayne Madsen
- Muhammad Waseem
- Alishan Sharafu
- Justin Mosca
Grand League (High-Risk Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- JJ Smuts
- Harry Manenti
- Muhammad Arfan
- Harshit Kaushik
ITA vs UAE Dream11 Team Prediction – Who Will Win?
Italy have shown excellent form in recent matches and look well-settled as a unit. Their batting depth and all-round strength give them an edge, especially on a surface like Chennai.
UAE have more experience overall, but their recent form and batting struggles remain a concern. Unless UAE’s top order fires, Italy should control the game.
Based on current form and balance, Italy enter this match as favorites.
Predicted Winner: Italy
Injury Update
| Team | Status |
|---|---|
| Italy | No injury updates |
| UAE | No injury updates |
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