The United Arab Emirates sealed a memorable 2-1 Twenty20 International series win over Bangladesh with a commanding seven-wicket victory in the third and final match at Sharjah Wednesday night.
Chasing 163, UAE rode on a brilliant unbeaten 68 off 47 balls from Alishan Sharafu, who was named Player of the Match.
His unbroken partnership with Asif Khan, who hammered 41 off 26 balls, ensured UAE cruised home with five balls to spare.
This is UAE’s first-ever T20I series win against a full-member side.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted 162 for nine after being sent in to bat.
The innings began brightly with Tanzid Hasan smashing 40 off just 18 deliveries.
But Bangladesh faltered after a flurry of early wickets, including a golden duck for Parvez Hossain Emon, returning to the XI after injury.
Only Jaker Ali Anik (41 off 34) and a late cameo from Hasan Mahmud (26 off 15) provided some resistance.
Haider Ali was the pick of the UAE bowlers, claiming three for seven in his four-over spell.
Saghir Khan and Matiullah Khan chipped in with two wickets each to restrict Bangladesh to a below-par total.
UAE’s chase began with the early dismissal of skipper Muhammad Waseem (nine), but Muhammad Zohaib (29), Sharafu and Asif counterattacked effectively.
Despite a few tight overs in the middle, Bangladesh’s bowlers could not apply sustained pressure.
Bangladesh will now travel to Pakistan to play a three-match T20 series against the hosts.
3RD T20
Bangladesh 162/9 (Jaker 41, Tanzid 40, Haider 3/7) lost to UAE 166/3 in 19.1 overs (Sharafu 68*, Asif 41*, Zohaib 29) by 7 wickets
