• UAE defeated Bangladesh in the third T20I and marked their first-ever bilateral series triumph against a full-member Test-playing nation.

  • Opener Alishan Sharafu earned the Player of the Match for his batting brilliance.

Fans erupt as clinical UAE beat Bangladesh in the 3rd T20I to clinch historic series win
UAE beat Bangladesh to clinch T20I series (Image Source: X)

In a momentous night at the Sharjah Stadium, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) etched their name in cricketing history with a dominant seven-wicket win over Bangladesh in the third and final T20I. With this victory, UAE sealed the three-match series 2-1—marking their first-ever bilateral series triumph against a full-member Test-playing nation.

Haider Ali shines with the ball to keep Bangladesh in check


After winning the toss, UAE captain Muhammad Waseem chose to bowl first on a batting-friendly surface. Bangladesh, who were under pressure to clinch the decider, posted 162/9 in their 20 overs—a total that looked competitive but not beyond reach. Jaker Ali stood out for the visitors with a composed 41-run knock, anchoring the innings after regular fall of wickets.

However, it was UAE’s disciplined bowling that kept Bangladesh in check. Youngster Haider Ali was the standout performer with figures of 3/7, picking crucial wickets in the middle overs to halt Bangladesh’s momentum. His economical spell was pivotal in restricting the opposition under 170.

Sharafu shines as UAE register historic series win

Chasing 163 for victory, UAE showed no signs of nerves in their most important chase yet. Opener Alishan Sharafu played the innings of his life, remaining unbeaten on 68 and guiding his team home with nine balls to spare. His classy knock was laced with smart strokeplay and calm under pressure, earning him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.

The chase was built on solid partnerships, with UAE losing only three wickets. Sharafu’s composure, combined with sensible contributions from the middle order, ensured UAE never lost control of the game. Their batting approach was calculated, showing maturity beyond expectations from an associate side.

This victory marks a watershed moment for UAE cricket. Not only did they defeat Bangladesh convincingly in the series decider, but they also became the first UAE side to clinch a bilateral series against a Test-playing nation. Captain Waseem, who was consistent throughout the series, was named Player of the Series.

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