UAE Stun Bangladesh with Record-Breaking Chase in Sharjah

Skipper Muhammad Waseem delivered a blistering 82 off 42 balls as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured a stunning two-wicket win over Bangladesh in the second T20 match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Monday. This marked the UAE’s first-ever victory against Bangladesh in any cricket format, leveling the three-match series 1-1 ahead of the decider on Wednesday.

Tanzid Hasan Tamim’s brilliant half-century propelled Bangladesh to a formidable 205-5, but Waseem’s six-heavy innings helped UAE chase down the target with 12 balls to spare, finishing at 206-8. The power-hitting made the difference, with UAE smashing 13 sixes compared to Bangladesh’s nine.

Despite Waseem’s aggressive knock, Bangladesh fought back late in the chase, but Haider Ali’s calm finishing, scoring an unbeaten 15 off six balls, sealed the win for the hosts.

Opening the chase, Waseem and Muhammad Zohaib put on a 107-run partnership in just over 10 overs, putting UAE in a strong position. After Zohaib’s dismissal, Bangladesh struck back with key wickets, including Waseem’s, who hit nine fours and five sixes. However, UAE’s lower order held firm, with Haider Ali closing out the match.

On the batting front for Bangladesh, Tanzid’s explosive 59 off 33 balls laid the foundation, supported by Towhid Hridoy’s 45 off 24 and skipper Liton Das’s 40 off 32. Najmul Hossain Shanto also contributed 27 off 19 in his series debut.

Tanzid’s rapid start saw him reach fifty off just 25 balls, a rare feat for a Bangladeshi T20 batter, highlighted by a six over deep square leg. After his dismissal by debutant Saghir Khan, Shanto and Liton maintained the momentum, ensuring Bangladesh crossed the 200-run mark.

Bowling highlights included Muhammad Jawadullah’s three wickets for 54 runs and Saghir Khan’s two for 36. Jawadullah had earlier taken four wickets in the series opener, continuing his impressive form.