In a thrilling second T20 match, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) edged past Bangladesh by 2 wickets to level the three-match series 1-1. Chasing a massive target of 206, the hosts pulled off a historic win — their first-ever T20 victory against Bangladesh — with one ball to spare, thanks to a superb 82-run knock by captain Mohammad Wasim and a tense final-over finish.
UAE got off to a flying start in pursuit of the big target. Openers Mohammad Wasim and Mohammad Zohaib added 107 runs for the first wicket in just 9.2 overs. Wasim brought up his half-century in only 25 balls, while Zohaib contributed 39 off 35 deliveries before falling to Tanvir Islam, giving Bangladesh their first breakthrough.
Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain then struck twice in quick succession, including the dismissal of Rahul Chopra for just 2 runs off 4 balls, briefly swinging momentum back towards Bangladesh. However, Wasim, who had earlier survived a chance on 64, continued to dominate.
He eventually fell for a brilliant 82 off 42 balls, featuring 9 fours and 5 sixes, caught by wicketkeeper Zakir Ali off the bowling of Shoriful Islam.
With 30 balls remaining, UAE still needed 57 runs and looked under pressure after losing key wickets. But Haider Ali kept his cool in the final over, scoring the required 12 runs to seal a dramatic victory with one delivery remaining.
The series decider between Bangladesh and UAE will be played on May 21, where both teams will battle for the series win.
UA / TDS
