Sat May 24 14:20:00 UTC 2025: **UAE Stuns Bangladesh to Clinch Historic T20I Series Win**
**Sharjah, UAE** – In a stunning upset, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured their first-ever T20I bilateral series victory against Bangladesh with a dominant seven-wicket win in the deciding match at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Alishan Sharafu’s boundary sealed the victory, completing the UAE’s successful chase of Bangladesh’s 163-run target and marking a significant milestone in their cricketing history.
The UAE’s triumph came after a shaky start to the series, having lost the opening match by 27 runs. However, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience, bouncing back to defeat Bangladesh in the following two matches. In the second T20I, the UAE chased down a daunting 206-run target, leveling the series and setting the stage for a thrilling finale.
Winning the toss in the crucial decider, the UAE elected to bowl first. The decision proved fruitful as Haider Ali’s impressive left-arm spin wreaked havoc on Bangladesh’s top order, reducing them to a precarious 49/4. Ali’s figures of 3/7 were instrumental in stifling the Tigers’ batting lineup. While Tanzid Hasan (40) and Jaker Ali (41) offered some resistance, along with Hasan Mahmud’s late fireworks (26*), Bangladesh managed to post a total of 162/9.
In response, the UAE faced early setbacks, losing their openers cheaply. However, Sharafu anchored the innings with a brilliant unbeaten knock of 68, while Asif Khan provided strong support with an aggressive 41 not out. The pair forged an unbroken 87-run partnership, crushing Bangladesh’s hopes of a comeback. Asif’s two sixes in the penultimate over brought the UAE within touching distance of victory, which Sharafu duly secured, sparking jubilant celebrations among the UAE players and fans.
First Piper 