The UAE scripted one of the biggest wins in their T20 international journey, stunning Bangladesh in the second match of a three-match series in Sharjah on Monday, 19 May. The UAE chased down the highest target in their T20I history – 206 – to outclass Bangladesh and level the series at 1-1.
Bangladesh had won all four of their meetings since 2016 and appeared poised to make it five from five after posting 205 in their full quota of 20 overs, following the home team’s decision to bowl after winning the toss. However, UAE captain Muhammad Waseem flipped the script, smashing 82 off just 42 balls and inspiring a historic chase in a thrilling encounter that went down to the wire at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium. | UAE vs BAN 2nd T20I Scorecard |
The UAE’s chase of 206 was the highest ever by an associate nation against a full-member team in T20I history. It was also the UAE’s first-ever successful chase of 200-plus in the shortest format of the game.
“I have no words. I am very happy we beat Bangladesh. Very happy with the performance. I was giving hope to everyone that we could chase this score because we know the conditions,” said captain and Player of the Match Muhammad Waseem.
A COLLECTIVE EFFORT WITH THE BAT
Chasing 206, the UAE got off to a flying start, scoring 68 runs in six overs. Muhammad Waseem raced to 32 while his opening partner Muhammad Zohaib provided solid support, smashing 30 off 23 balls during the powerplay.
Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana conceded 18 runs each in the last two overs of the powerplay.
Waseem and Zohaib continued their momentum even after the fielding restrictions were lifted, taking the team total to 107 for no loss at the halfway mark.
However, the UAE then lost their set batters – Waseem for 82 and Zohaib for 38 – slipping to 148 for 3 in 15 overs.
There were no significant contributions following the opening stand, but cameos from Asif Khan (19 off 12) and Alishan Sharfu (13 off 9) helped inch the UAE closer to the target.
Still, with 29 required off the last two overs, it appeared Bangladesh were firmly in control.
However, Haider Ali smashed 15 off 6 deliveries, backed well by Dhruv Parashar, who hit 11 off 7 balls.
Shoriful Islam conceded 17 runs in the 19th over before the UAE sealed the victory with the final delivery of the contest. Bangladesh missed the experience of Mustafizur Rahman, who left the UAE to play in the Indian Premier League after the first T20I last week.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh produced a strong batting display. Opener Tanzid Hasan smashed 59 off 33 balls, while Litton Das contributed 40 off 32 deliveries.
Towhid Hridoy gave the much-needed late impetus, smashing 45 off 24 balls, with Jaker Ali adding a cameo of 18 from 6 balls.
High on confidence, the UAE will be looking to clinch a rare series victory when they face Bangladesh in the final match on Wednesday, 21 May.