Captain Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu delivered impressive half-centuries, steering UAE to a commanding 42-run victory over Oman in the Asia Cup on Monday.
Waseem scored 69, while Sharafu contributed 51, crafting an 88-run partnership for the first wicket, leading the UAE to a formidable 172-5 in Abu Dhabi.
The UAE bowlers then united to bowl Oman out for just 130 in 18.4 overs, marking their first triumph in this T20 regional tournament.
Medium-pacer Junaid Siddique shone with figures of 4-23, while Haider Ali and Muhammad Jawadullah each claimed two wickets.
Setting the stage for victory, Waseem and Sharafu began cautiously before launching a boundary assault against the opposition.
Sharafu was dismissed for 51, but Waseem continued aggressively, reaching his fifty with a six before being run out in the final over.
“It was quite enjoyable, and the game was crucial for us, so we needed to give our best today. Starting at 4 pm, the pitch was slow, and the ball wasn’t coming on nicely. We had to adjust our approach, use the crease, and play straight. I’m glad it worked out,” said Sharafu, named man-of-the-match.
“Our plan was to accelerate during the powerplay and ensure one of us batted deep. Credit to the captain for holding it together after my dismissal. We had a lot of fun out there.”
Waseem was thrilled with the team’s response after a poor show against India.
“As I said, the past is past. We wanted to demonstrate our abilities and play our style, and we did that. I’m very happy,” he stated.
“We discussed in our meetings, prepared three days prior, and executed our plans. We aimed to play aggressively in the powerplay, and we succeeded. It’s a proud moment for me, and I wish to continue this momentum.”
Meanwhile, Oman captain Jatinder Singh accepted the defeat with grace.
“Credit goes to the UAE batters for their strategic start and execution,” he commented.
“Our start was on point, but we lost too many wickets. The team is improving, though we lack experience. We hope to be at full strength in the coming years.
The pitch favored batting, especially in the evening. We knew a strong powerplay was crucial, but it wasn’t achieved.”
UAE will face Pakistan next on Wednesday, with the winner likely advancing to the Super Four stage of the eight-nation tournament.
Oman struggled throughout, losing five wickets for just 50 runs, with captain Jatinder Singh scoring 20 as they suffered their second consecutive defeat.
Defending champions India, having won the previous 50-overs edition, lead Group A with two wins and are nearly through to the next stage.
This competition not only offers regional bragging rights but also serves as preparation for the T20 World Cup in February-March in India and Sri Lanka.
