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UAE and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the third and final T20I of the three-match series on Sunday, August 20. The battle will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
It is worth mentioning that UAE won the second game of the leg after suffering a loss in the opening match against the Blackcaps and levelled the series (1-0) to stay alive in the contest.
Aayan Khan and Muhammad Waseem shined for UAE in their historic victory over New Zealand in the second T20I. Aayan bagged three wickets for the hosts, while Waseem showcased his prowess with the bat and amassed 55 runs off 29 balls. Although Mark Chapman had played an impressive 63-run knock for the Kiwis in the first innings, his efforts went in vain as the Kiwi bowlers failed to defend the set target.
UAE will be determined to keep the momentum going and pull off a sensational series-clinching victory over the visitors. Meanwhile, New Zealand will be eyeing to bounce back.
T20 stats and records at Dubai International Cricket Stadium:
- Total matches: 87
- Matches won batting first: 39
- Matches won bowling first: 47
- Average first innings score: 145
- Average second innings score: 128
- Highest total: 212/2 (India)
- Lowest total: 55 all-out (West Indies)
- Highest run chase: 184 (Sri Lanka)
- Lowest score defended: 134 (Oman)
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Dubai International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report:
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium’s pitch offers an equitable platform for both batters and bowlers. The fast bowlers enjoy significant swing and are expected to capitalize on the new ball during the initial phase of the game. On the other hand, spinners face challenges in getting a firm grip due to the even surface. However, batters will have the upper hand beyond the initial overs for most of the game on this track. The team winning the coin toss should consider opting to bowl first at this venue.
Dubai Weather Report:
The weather at Dubai International Cricket Stadium is expected to be sunny and humid, with no signs of rain. The temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees Celsius with humidity levels to be around 57% and the wind blowing at a speed of 14 Km/hr. The spectators can anticipate thrilling encounters without any interruptions.
UAE vs NZ 3rd T20I, Probable XIs:
UAE: Muhammad Waseem (c), Aryansh Sharma (wk), Vriitya Aravind, Asif Khan, Ansh Tandon, Basil Hameed, Ali Naseer, Aayan Afzal Khan, Mohammed Faraazuddin, Junaid Siddique, Zahoor Khan
New Zealand: Tim Seifert, Chad Bowes, Dane Cleaver (wk), Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, James Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Cole McConchie, Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee (c), Ben Lister