Cricket News

UAE stuns Afghanistan in Sharjah thriller to level series

In a thrilling encounter under the Sharjah floodlights, the United Arab Emirates stunned Afghanistan by 11 runs to level the ongoing three-match T20I series 1-1. Chasing a challenging 167-run target set by the hosts, Afghanistan looked poised for victory at various stages, only to crumble in the final overs, falling agonizingly short of the finish line.

The day belonged to UAE skipper Mohammad Waseem, who led from the front with a captain’s knock of 53 off 32 deliveries. Waseem, along with opener Aryan Lakra (63 off 47 balls), orchestrated a 72-run opening partnership that laid the foundation for the home team’s total. The duo struck boundaries with effortless ease, dismantling the Afghan bowling attack in the powerplay. After the departure of the openers, UAE stuttered, as the rest of the batting line-up failed to deliver. They eventually managed a total of 166 in their allocated 20 overs.

In response, Afghanistan started quite well, with openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hazratullah Zazai, both getting started. However, Ali Naseer got rid of both of them to bring UAE back into the contest.

Naseer and Jawadullah’s 4-fers sink Afghanistan

However, Mohammad Nabi stepped up for Afghanistan, playing a valiant innings of 47 off 27 balls. He tried his level best but the brilliance of Ali Naseer and Muhammad Jawadullah shone through as their regular striker never allowed Afghanistan to gain any sort of momentum. Both of them registered four-wicket hauls which completely changed the game in UAE’s favour.

The victory was a monumental achievement for the UAE, not only levelling the series but also boosting their confidence against a much-fancied opponent. Ali Naseer was rightfully declared Player of the Match for his returns of 4-24. For Afghanistan, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. Captain Ibrahim Zadran lamented the failure of the batting unit to create partnerships, citing that as the reason for the loss.

With the series set at 1-1, the final T20I on January 2nd promises to be a nail-biter. Both teams will be desperate to clinch the series, making for a fascinating encounter that will keep cricket fans on the edge of their seats.