The United Arab Emirates created history on Thursday by clinching their first-ever T20I series win over a Full Member nation, defeating Bangladesh 2-1 in the decider at Dubai.
Powered by Alishan Sharafu’s unbeaten 68 and a sensational bowling effort led by Haider Ali, the hosts sealed a memorable 7-wicket win with five balls to spare.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Bangladesh found themselves in deep trouble at 84 for 8. A brisk 40 off 18 balls from Tanzid Hasan gave them a flying start, but the middle order crumbled under pressure.
Jaker Ali then rescued the innings with a gritty 41 off 34 balls, while lower-order contributions from Hasan Mahmud (26* off 15) and Shoriful Islam (16* off 7) helped the visitors post a competitive 162/9.
UAE’s bowlers were outstanding, especially Haider Ali, who returned remarkable figures of 4-1-7-3. Matiullah Khan and Saghir Khan picked up two wickets each, while Raja Akif and Dhruv Parashar chipped in with one apiece.
In reply, UAE lost captain Muhammad Waseem early, but a 44-run partnership between Muhammad Zohaib (29) and Sharafu settled the innings.
Asif Khan then played the perfect finisher’s role, hammering five sixes in a blazing 41* off 26 deliveries. Sharafu held firm throughout, guiding UAE to the target with a stylish cover drive to the boundary, remaining unbeaten on 68.
