News DeskDubai, UAE: The spirited UAE cricket team, displaying audacious play, garnered praise despite succumbing to New Zealand in the T20 series decider on Sunday. Although the UAE team lost by 32 runs at the Dubai International Stadium, their fearless performance and promising young talents captured attention.
Facing a target of 167, the UAE chase wavered at 53 for five in the ninth over. However, 17-year-old Aayan Afzal Khan, renowned for his left-arm spin and a pivotal role in UAE’s historic win in the previous match, showcased his batting prowess. Partnering with Basil Hameed (24 not out off 28 balls), Aayan scored a notable 42 off 36 balls, contributing to a 68-run sixth-wicket stand.
Despite their effort, UAE finished at 134 for seven, resulting in a 2-1 series victory for New Zealand. The UAE’s top-order batters Aryansh Sharma, Vriitya Aravind, and Asif Khan made starts but couldn’t capitalize.
For the UAE, this experience was part of their journey to qualify for the 2024 T20 World Cup. UAE captain Muhammad Waseem acknowledged the challenging middle overs in their run-chase but expressed gratitude for the team’s supporters and management.
New Zealand’s bowling, led by Tim Southee and Ben Lister, strategically employed short balls and out-swing deliveries. Junaid Siddique emerged as the UAE’s standout bowler, maintaining pressure with a tight line. New Zealand’s batting duo, Will Young (56) and Mark Chapman (51), built an impactful 84-run partnership for the third wicket, steering the Kiwis to a winning total.
Despite the series loss, the UAE’s spirited performance and promising talents indicate a bright future for the team.”
Brief Scores:
New Zealand: 166/5 (Will Young 56, Mark Chapman 51, Mitchell Santner 20; Junaid Siddique 3/26) UAE: 134/7 (Aayan Afzal Khan 42, Basil Hameed 24; Ben Lister 3/35)
Series: New Zealand win 2-1.”
