Abu Dhabi (Web Desk): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) registered a convincing 42-run victory over Oman in the Asia Cup T20 clash held in Abu Dhabi on Monday. Captain Muhammad Waseem was the star with the bat, scoring a sparkling 69, while his opening partner Alishan Sharafu added a lively 51.
Together they provided a solid start with an 88-run stand, helping the hosts to post a competitive 172 for five.
Oman never looked settled in the chase and were bundled out for 130 in 18.4 overs. Junaid Siddique shone with the ball, taking 4 for 23, while Haider Ali and Muhammad Jawadullah chipped in with two wickets apiece.
UAE’s batting effort was built on calculated aggression. Waseem and Sharafu began cautiously before opening up with a stream of boundaries. Sharafu’s half-century came at a crucial time, and though he departed soon after, Waseem carried on the assault, reaching his fifty with a six before being run out in the last over.
Oman’s innings fell apart early, losing five wickets with just 50 runs on the board. Skipper Jatinder Singh was the only notable contributor with 20 as his side suffered their second straight loss in the tournament.
The win leaves UAE in the race for a Super Four berth, with their next challenge against Pakistan on Wednesday. Pakistan previously slipped against India, who remain unbeaten at the top of Group A and look set to advance. India, the defending champions from the 50-over version of the event, are closing in on the next round.
This tournament not only decides regional supremacy but also offers teams a valuable platform to gear up for the T20 World Cup, set to be staged in India and Sri Lanka early next year.