Former international head coach joins Rovman Powell-led side, with Trent Boult and Shimron Hetmyer also signed for 2026 tournament
ABU DHABI, – Former international head coach Mickey Arthur has been appointed head coach of the newly formed Emirates Eagles for the 2026 Abu Dhabi T10.
The Eagles, owned by Maverick Sports and Entertainment, will make their tournament debut when the Abu Dhabi T10 returns to Zayed Cricket Stadium from 7 to 20 November.
West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell has been named captain, while New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult and West Indies batter Shimron Hetmyer have been confirmed as direct signings.
Arthur, who has coached several international sides as well as leading franchise teams, will oversee the Eagles’ cricketing strategy as the new franchise prepares for its first season.
The team said its aim was to build a competitive franchise with a long-term presence in the UAE and international cricket.
“Emirates Eagles arrive with an exciting vision for what they want to build, both on and off the field,” said Matt Boucher, chief executive of the Abu Dhabi T10 and its owners, Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub.
“The combination of Rovman Powell, Mickey Arthur, Trent Boult and Shimron Hetmyer gives them an outstanding cricketing foundation.”
Powell, who has played extensively in international and franchise cricket, will lead the side on the field. The 31-year-old is known for his aggressive middle-order batting and power-hitting in T20 cricket.
“There is something special about joining a new franchise at the beginning of its journey because you can help create its identity from day one,” Powell said.
“T10 cricket demands confidence, clarity and the willingness to take the game on.”
Boult brings extensive experience of international and franchise cricket, while Hetmyer adds another left-handed power hitter to the Eagles’ batting line-up.
The franchise is backed by Maverick Sports and Entertainment, a consortium comprising Annam Satish Prabhakar, Classic Investments, Kondaveeti Durga Pavan Kumar, Bonam Suryaprakash, Annam Kusumkiran and Allada Ashok Vardhan.
Annam Satish Prabhakar, managing director of Emirates Eagles, said the ownership group had a “long-term plan” to develop the franchise into a commercially sustainable global sporting brand.
The management team also includes chief operating officer Sandeep Yara, an Indian former first-class cricketer with experience in franchise operations and brand development.
Nabeel Hashmi has been appointed team director. He previously spent three years as team manager of Deccan Gladiators, giving him experience of the Abu Dhabi T10.
The Eagles are the latest franchise to join an evolving Abu Dhabi T10 competition as preparations continue for the 2026 season.