United Arab Emirates pull off a sensational 11-run victory
A pulsating T20 encounter at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium witnessed the United Arab Emirates pull off a sensational 11-run victory over a favored Afghanistan on Monday. In a game filled with twists and turns, the win marks a historic moment for UAE cricket, claiming their first-ever T20 series win against the regional giants.
UAE Batting Explodes, Sets Challenging Target:
Opting to bat first, UAE openers Aryan Lakra (63 off 47) and Muhammad Waseem (53 off 32) tore into the Afghan bowling attack. The duo put on a commanding 109-run partnership, laying the foundation for a competitive total. Lakra was particularly aggressive, smashing seven boundaries in his knock. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals in the latter half, a late cameo from Zahoor Khan (22 off 8) propelled UAE to a respectable 166/7 on the board.
Afghan Chase Crumbles, UAE Spinners Wreak Havoc:
Facing a challenging target, Afghanistan started confidently with Hazratullah Zazai (36 off 27) leading the charge. However, the tide turned dramatically as UAE’s spin duo of Ali Naseer and Muhammad Jawadullah took control. Naseer, in a career-defining performance, ripped through the middle order, claiming an impressive 4-24. Jawadullah joined the party with an equally stunning haul of 4-26, reducing Afghanistan to a precarious 89/7.
Nabi Fights Gallantly, But Falls Short:
Mohammad Nabi showcased unwavering determination with a fighting fifty (47 off 27), smashing three sixes in a late bid to revive the chase. However, the required run rate proved too much for the remaining batsmen, and Afghanistan were eventually dismissed for 155/10 in 19.5 overs.
UAE Celebrate Landmark Victory:
This victory marks a watershed moment for UAE cricket. Defeating a formidable opponent like Afghanistan on home soil is a testament to the team’s growing talent and resilience. The spin twins, Naseer and Jawadullah, deserve immense credit for their match-winning performances, while Lakra’s opening blitz laid the groundwork for the win.
With the series tied 1-1, the stage is set for a thrilling finale. Can UAE repeat their heroics and clinch the series, or will Afghanistan bounce back and reclaim the trophy? The decisive third T20 promises another edge-of-the-seat encounter, one that cricket fans across the globe won’t want to miss.
Stats
First Innings
United Arab Emirates Score – 166/7 in 20.0 overs
United Arab Emirates batting performance
Aryan Lakra 63(47)
Muhammad Waseem 53(32)
Afghanistan bowling performance
Qais Ahmad 3-15-2
Azmatullah Omarzai 4-35-2
Second Innings
Afghanistan Score – 155/10 in 19.5 overs
Afghanistan batting performance
Mohammad Nabi 47(27)
Hazratullah Zazai 36(27)
United Arab Emirates bowling performance
Ali Naseer 4-24-4
Muhammad Jawadullah 4-26-4
