Moises Henriques to Lead Portugal in T20 World Cup 2028 Qualifier

Moises Henriques Portugal captain is the latest major development ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028 qualification pathway, with the former Australia all-rounder set to lead Portugal in the Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C.

Henriques, who was born in Portugal before moving to Australia during his childhood, brings considerable international and franchise experience to the European side. The 39-year-old represented Australia across all three formats and is now aiming to help his country of birth move closer to a maiden appearance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Moises Henriques named Portugal captain

Henriques was officially appointed Portugal’s captain on Tuesday, August 11. His leadership represents a significant boost for a side attempting to make progress through the qualification process for the 2028 T20 World Cup.

Portugal are currently ranked 37th in the ICC T20I rankings and will compete in Group B of the Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C. The tournament is scheduled to take place from August 14 to August 20, with a final scheduled for August 21.

Portugal have been placed alongside Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia. Henriques’ experience could prove particularly valuable against teams competing for progression in the qualification pathway.

Henriques brings more than 300 T20 matches of experience

The biggest advantage Henriques brings to Portugal is his extensive experience in T20 cricket. The veteran all-rounder has played more than 300 matches in the format, giving him an understanding of different conditions, tactical situations and pressure moments.

Henriques also has significant experience in the Indian Premier League, having represented Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings during his career.

His franchise background means Portugal will have a captain who has played alongside and against some of the world’s leading T20 players. That experience could be particularly useful for a developing international side.

Former Australia international’s career

Henriques represented Australia internationally between October 2009 and August 2021. During that period, he played four Tests, 16 ODIs and 24 T20Is for the national team.

Although injuries and competition for places affected his international career, Henriques remained an experienced all-rounder across domestic and franchise cricket. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives Portugal another valuable option during the qualifier.

He ended his Australian domestic career in July 2026 but indicated that he wanted to continue playing in overseas tournaments. His move to Portugal provides an opportunity to extend his playing career while contributing to the country’s international ambitions.

Portugal targeting historic T20 World Cup qualification

Portugal are aiming to make history by progressing through the qualification route and eventually reaching the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup for the first time.

The presence of an experienced player such as Henriques could help the squad handle the pressure of an important qualification tournament. His knowledge of T20 strategy, combined with his international experience, could also help younger players within the Portugal setup.

Portugal will need to navigate a competitive group featuring Israel, Germany, Greece and Czechia before potentially reaching the final on August 21.

Portugal’s T20 World Cup 2028 qualifier fixtures

Portugal squad for Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C

Portugal’s squad for the tournament includes Moises Henriques as captain, along with Craig Cachopa, Edward Fleming, Christopher de Freitas, Rahulkumar Hashu, Siraj Ullah Khadem, Hardeep Khuttan, Jeremy Martins, Dhavalkumar Norotam, Jordan Netto, Carlos Nunes, Sebastian de Oliveira, Upen Shantu and Cameron Shekleton.

Why Henriques’ appointment matters for Portugal

Henriques’ appointment gives Portugal a leader with experience at the highest levels of international and franchise cricket. His knowledge of T20 cricket could be crucial as the team attempts to navigate a demanding qualification campaign.

For Henriques, the assignment also carries a personal connection because of his Portuguese birthplace. Having represented Australia during his international career, he now has the opportunity to help Portugal pursue a major milestone in their cricketing history.

If Portugal can perform strongly in the Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C, Henriques’ leadership could become an important part of their journey towards the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028.