Funchal: Former Australia all-rounder Moises Henriques is set for a surprise international switch, with the 38-year-old now eligible to represent Portugal after completing ICC qualification requirements.
Henriques, who was born in Funchal before moving to Australia as an infant, had previously represented Australia across formats, including Tests, ODIs and T20Is. He also featured in franchise cricket and was part of the title-winning Sunrisers Hyderabad squad in the Indian Premier League 2016.
His decision marks another notable example of a senior international cricketer moving into the Associate cricket pathway later in his career, as global eligibility rules allow players to represent a new country after a cooling-off period.
From Australia international to Portugal opportunity
Henriques last played for Australia in a T20 International against Bangladesh in 2021. Under ICC regulations, players can switch allegiance to an Associate nation after a three-year gap from their last international appearance, which made him eligible for Portugal.
Across his international career, he featured in 4 Tests, 16 ODIs and 24 T20Is, contributing as a batting all-rounder with useful medium pace.
Portugal cricket, still developing on the global stage, will see Henriques as a major boost as they look to build a competitive squad for upcoming qualification cycles.
Portugal’s World Cup qualification push
Portugal are set to compete in the European qualification pathway for the T20 World Cup 2028, where they will face teams such as Czech Republic, Israel and Greece in the regional structure.
The tournament, to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, will feature expanded qualification opportunities for Associate nations as the International Cricket Council continues to globalise the game.
Henriques’ experience at international and franchise level is expected to add depth and leadership to a side aiming to progress through the early qualification rounds.
Henriques on growing the global game
The former Australia all-rounder has also spoken about his motivation behind the move, emphasising cricket’s global development rather than personal milestones.
He highlighted the importance of expanding competitive cricket beyond traditional powerhouses, suggesting that wider participation could help make future World Cups more globally representative.
Henriques’ comments reflect a broader trend of established cricketers contributing to Associate nations, both as players and mentors.
Growing trend of players switching nations
Henriques is not the only former Australia player to explore Associate cricket opportunities. Earlier, former Australia batter Joe Burns also opted to represent Italy, highlighting a growing pathway for experienced professionals to extend their international careers.
Such moves are increasingly shaping European cricket structures, bringing experience and visibility to emerging teams.
Conclusion
Moises Henriques’ switch to Portugal adds both experience and attention to a developing cricket nation aiming to compete on the global stage. While his international career with Australia is complete, his second chapter in Associate cricket could play a key role in Portugal’s long-term ambitions.