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SHARJAH: A blistering knock from skipper Muhammad Waseem helped the United Arab Emirates (UAE) script history here on Monday as they defeated Bangladesh for the first time ever in international cricket.
The hosts clinched a thrilling two-wicket win in the second T20I at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, levelling the three-match series 1-1.
Chasing a daunting 206, the UAE got home with just one ball to spare, thanks to a captain’s knock from Waseem, who smashed 82 off just 42 deliveries, laced with nine fours and five towering sixes.
His fearless strokeplay up top gave the hosts belief, but when he fell in the 15th over with 58 still required, the game was hanging in the balance.
But the UAE middle order showed nerves of steel. Haider Ali, with an unbeaten 16, saw the team through, sneaking a couple off the penultimate delivery after Towhid Hridoy misfielded a potential run-out chance.
Earlier, Bangladesh put up a strong total of 205/5 after being asked to bat by the UAE.
Tanzid Hasan led the charge with a fluent 59 off 33, while skipper Litton Das played the anchor with 40 off 32.
The pair added 90 for the first wicket before Towhid Hridoy added late fireworks with a brisk 45 off 24.
Muhammad Jawadullah starred with the ball for the hosts, claiming 3/45, while Saghir Khan chipped in with two important scalps.
In reply, the UAE’s batting revolved around Waseem’s brilliance. The right-hander attacked from ball one, putting the Bangladesh bowlers under immense pressure.
Even after his departure, the lower middle order held its nerve to complete one of UAE’s most memorable victories in their cricketing history.
For Bangladesh, Rishad Hossain, Nahid Rana, and Shoriful Islam picked two wickets apiece, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Tanvir Islam managed one each.
With the series now level at 1-1, the third and final T20I between Bangladesh and UAE on Wednesday at the same venue promises to be a high-stakes decider.
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