Pakistan sealed a convincing 31-run win over the United Arab Emirates in the fifth match of the tri-nation T20 series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday, thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s explosive batting and Abrar Ahmed’s magical spell.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 171-5 in their 20 overs after a shaky start. The top order collapsed early, but Fakhar Zaman held firm with an unbeaten 77 off just 44 balls, smashing boundaries all around the ground. He was well supported by Mohammad Nawaz, who scored 37 off 27 balls. The pair added 91 runs for the sixth wicket, rescuing Pakistan after they were reeling at 80-5. The last two overs proved vital as the duo added 42 runs, with UAE fielders dropping crucial catches.
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In reply, the UAE could only manage 140-7 in their 20 overs. Alishan Sharafu fought hard with a 51-ball 68, but none of the other batters could offer resistance. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, dismantled the UAE batting order. Abrar finished with outstanding figures of 4-9 in his four overs, registering his career-best in T20 internationals. Shaheen Shah Afridi (1-23) and Mohammad Nawaz (1-30) also picked up wickets, while the rest bowled tight spells to keep the hosts in check.
For the UAE, Haider Ali impressed with 2-17, while Muhammad Rohid, Junaid Siddique, and Dhruv Parashar picked a wicket each. Siddique also achieved the milestone of 100 T20I wickets during the match.
With this victory, Pakistan booked their place in the final of the tri-nation series, where they will face Afghanistan, led by Rashid Khan. Before the final, Afghanistan is set to take on the UAE in the last round-robin match on Friday.
