In a riveting second T20I, UAE's Naseer and Jawadullah shine with four-wicket hauls as Lakra and Waseem's fifties set the stage for a dramatic 11-run win.
The second T20I between UAE and Afghanistan unfolded into a gripping contest that saw UAE emerge victorious by 11 runs, levelling the three-match series at 1-1. A collective effort from UAE's batsmen, highlighted by fifties from Muhammad Waseem and Aryan Lakra, laid the foundation for their total of 166 for 7. In response, Afghanistan's chase stumbled under the pressure of Naseer and Jawadullah's four-wicket bursts, securing a crucial win for UAE.
UAE's Innings:
Opting to bat first, UAE's openers, Muhammad Waseem and Aryan Lakra, set the tone with a brisk opening stand of 72 in 8.3 overs. Captain Waseem led the charge, contributing 53 off 32 balls with an aggressive display featuring four fours and three sixes. Despite Qais Ahmad's quick double breakthrough, Lakra stepped up, finishing unbeaten on 63 off 47 balls, guiding UAE to a competitive total of 166.
Afghanistan's Chase:
Afghanistan's openers, Hazratullah Zazai and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, got off to a promising start, reaching 47 for 0 in five overs. However, the momentum shifted when Naseer intervened, taking crucial wickets in quick succession. Jawadullah joined the party, dismissing key batsmen as Afghanistan slipped to 99 for 6 in the 15th over, needing 65 from 30 balls.
While Mohammad Nabi's explosive 47 off 27 balls provided hope, wickets continued to tumble around him. Naseer returned to remove Qais, and Jawadullah's back-to-back strikes signalled the end for Afghanistan. Despite Nabi's late fireworks, UAE held their nerve to bowl out Afghanistan for 155 and secure the victory.
Player of the Match:
Ali Naseer was named the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance, claiming four crucial wickets for just 24 runs.
Upcoming Fixture:
The series now sets the stage for a thrilling decider as the two teams face off in the third and final T20I in Sharjah on January 2. Expectations are high for another intense battle as both sides vie for series supremacy.