UAE Secures Historic Series Win Over Bangladesh

UAE’s chase did not start smoothly, with captain Muhammad Waseem dismissed early for 9.

By DTD- On May 22, 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) made history in Sharjah, defeating Bangladesh 2-1 in a closely contested T20I series. This victory marks only the second time the UAE has won a T20I series against a Full Member nation, following their win over Ireland in 2021.

In the decisive third match, UAE chased down a target of 163 runs with seven wickets in hand. The star of the chase was Alishan Sharafu, who played a calm and composed innings under pressure. Sharafu remained unbeaten on 68 from 47 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes. He was well supported by Asif Khan, who scored a quick 41 not out off 26 balls. Together, they put on an unbroken 87-run partnership for the fourth wicket, guiding UAE home in the final over.

Earlier in the match, left-arm spinner Haider Ali delivered a standout performance with the ball. He took 3 wickets for just 7 runs, reducing Bangladesh to 84 for 8 at one stage. Despite a late recovery from the lower order, Bangladesh managed to post 162 for 9 in their 20 overs. Jaker Ali and Shoriful Islam added valuable runs towards the end, but the total proved insufficient.

UAE’s chase did not start smoothly, with captain Muhammad Waseem dismissed early for 9. However, Muhammad Zohaib and Sharafu steadied the innings before Asif Khan joined Sharafu to accelerate the scoring in the final overs. The pair’s big hitting brought the required run rate down, and Sharafu sealed the win with a boundary in the last over.

As for Bangladesh, they will have to regroup and focus on their upcoming three-match series against Pakistan on May 27.