Portugal has made a notable move ahead of their campaign to qualify for the 2028 T20 World Cup, bringing an experienced former international cricketer into a key leadership role. The European side will begin their qualification journey in Finland this week, with several challenging fixtures lined up as they look to progress through the regional pathway.

The appointment gives Portugal added experience as they prepare to face Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia in the T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C. The tournament will run from August 14 to 21, with Portugal aiming to finish on top of their group and take another step towards the global qualification stages.

Experienced former international takes charge

Former Australia all-rounder Moises Henriques has been named Portugal’s captain for the T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C. The 39-year-old was born in Madeira before moving to Australia as a young child and went on to represent Australia across all three formats. Henriques played four Tests, 16 ODIs and 24 T20Is for Australia, earning 44 international caps during his career. His most recent appearance for the national side came five years ago.

The all-rounder recently announced his retirement from Australian domestic cricket but intends to continue playing overseas. He is also set to feature for Glasgow Cosmic in the inaugural European T20 Premier League. Henriques will take over the captaincy from Carlos Nunes, who remains part of Portugal’s 14-member squad.

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Portugal face crucial qualification campaign

Portugal are currently ranked 37th in the ICC men’s T20I rankings and will face Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia in Group B. Their campaign begins against Israel on August 14, followed by Germany on August 15, Greece on August 17 and Czechia on August 20. The group winner will advance to a final on August 21 against the winner of Group A. The overall qualifier winner will then join Scotland, Jersey and Denmark in the European regional final.

Portugal squad: Moises Henriques (c), Craig Cachopa, Edward Fleming, Christopher de Freitas, Rahulkumar Hashu, Siraj Ullah Khadem, Hardeep Khuttan, Jeremy Martins, Dhavalkumar Norotam (wk), Jordan Netto, Carlos Nunes, Sebastian de Oliveira, Upen Shantu and Cameron Shekleton.

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