Former UAE skipper Khurram Khan says he’s been impressed by Rohan Mustafa’s captaincy reign but expects the national team will face a stern test against the Netherlands next week.

Since Mustafa, 28, replaced Amjad Javed as the new captain in February, the team have rediscovered their form that once made them one of the best Associate sides.

Under Mustafa, they have won 10 out of 14 matches including victories of Scotland, Hong Kong and Papua New Guinea on home soil.

Khurram, who  ended his 14-year international stint two years ago, feels the side are now on the up and has hailed Mustafa for adapting to the role so swiftly.

“His performances were always there whether it’s batting or bowling,” said Khurram, 46.

“In the last couple of months since he took over, you can really see the difference he’s made in the team. He’s very energetic and very vocal in the team and keeps everyone together. He keeps them motivated and awake and with Dougie Brown (head coach) coming in, there is a big difference in the team.”

“Rohan’s young and that’s on his side. He’s definitely performing as well and the team are doing well and there’s no reason for him to stop. Let him continue as he has learnt very quickly.”

Head coach Dougie Brown will take charge of his first series since being appointed as full-time coach in May after serving a successful three-month stint earlier in the month.

They meet the Netherlands in a three-match 50-over series on Monday and Khurram feels although the squad is talented to keep their good run going, he
remains wary of the challenges.

“I would say with the conditions over there, then yeah (it will be a challenge),” he said. “We played PNG and Oman and the conditions were different. Netherlands have good bowlers and I think it will be a good test there.

“But we have been more consistent, are winning matches and the guys are performing well.”