UAE clinch historic win over New Zealand in any format with 7-wicket victory in 2nd T20I

Muhammad Waseem displayed exceptional leadership skills on Saturday as UAE secured a thrilling seven-wicket victory against New Zealand in the second T20I at Dubai on Saturday, August 19. The win allowed UAE to not only level the three-match series in an exhilarating showdown, but secure their maiden win over New Zealand in any format.

Waseem initially adopted a cautious approach, accumulating 16 runs from 13 balls. However, he soon shifted gears, unleashing a flurry of powerful shots. His explosive batting included four boundaries and three towering sixes, propelling him to a fifty in just 27 balls. This dynamic performance laid the foundation for UAE’s pursuit of the 143-run target. Despite a shaky start and a score of 44/2 by the end of the powerplay, thanks in part to Vriitya Aravind’s swift 25 off 21 balls, Waseem’s aggressive innings turned the tide.

In the subsequent overs, Waseem’s intent became even more evident. He punished the New Zealand bowlers, striking a four and a six off consecutive deliveries. His onslaught continued with a boundary and another six, ultimately leading him to his fifty. Waseem’s departure from the crease did not halt UAE’s momentum. Asif Khan partnered with Basil Hameed to construct a resilient partnership, frustrating the New Zealand bowling attack.

As the match progressed, Asif Khan’s calculated stroke play and determination guided UAE closer to victory. Khan’s crucial boundaries against James Neesham and a game-changing six off Tim Southee brought the team within touching distance of a historic triumph. The jubilation was evident as UAE clinched their first T20I victory over a Test-playing nation, excluding Ireland and Afghanistan.

New Zealand faced early setbacks in their innings, with Tim Seifert falling in the third over. Aayan Khan’s quick strikes removed Mitchell Santner and Dane Cleaver in consecutive deliveries, leaving New Zealand struggling. Despite a solid knock of 63 runs off 46 balls by Mark Chapman, supported briefly by James Neesham’s 21 off 17 balls, New Zealand’s total of 142 fell short against a spirited UAE side.