United Arab Emirates sealed a memorable 2-1 T20I series win over Bangladesh with a commanding seven-wicket victory in the third and final match at Sharjah on Wednesday night.
Chasing 163, UAE rode on a brilliant unbeaten 68 off 47 balls from Alishan Sharafu, who was named Player of the Match.
His partnership with Asif Khan, who hammered 41 off 26 balls, ensured UAE cruised home with five balls to spare. This is UAE’s first-ever T20I series win against a full-member side.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted 162 for 9 after being sent in to bat. The innings began brightly with Tanzid Hasan smashing 40 off just 18 deliveries.
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But Bangladesh faltered after a flurry of early wickets, including a golden duck for Parvez Hossain Emon, returning to the XI after injury.
Only Jaker Ali (41 off 34) and a late cameo from Hasan Mahmud (26 off 15) provided some resistance.
Haider Ali was the pick of the UAE bowlers, claiming 3 for 7 in his four-over spell.
Saghir Khan and Matiullah Khan chipped in with two wickets each to restrict Bangladesh below par.
UAE’s chase began with the early dismissal of skipper Muhammad Waseem, but Zohaib (29), Sharafu and Asif counterattacked effectively.
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Despite a few tight overs in the middle, Bangladesh’s bowlers couldn’t apply sustained pressure. A 50-run stand off 31 balls between Sharafu and Asif all but sealed the match.
Bangladesh will now travel to Pakistan to play a three-match T20 series against the hosts.