In what could be a classic upset brewing, UAE have set New Zealand 174 to win in their T20 World Cup Group D opener at MA Chidambaram Stadium. Captain Muhammad Wasim’s unbeaten half-century proved the bedrock of UAE’s 173 for 6, a total built on resilience after a poor start.
Aryansh Sharma’s early dismissal for 8 left UAE at 12/1, but Wasim and Alishan Sharafu countered with authority. Their 107-run stand rescued the innings, with Sharafu falling for a well-made 55 (47 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes). Wasim then marshalled the lower order, partnering Mayank Kumar for 40 runs – Kumar blasting 21 off 12.
Brief cameos from Harshit Kaushik (2) and Shoaib Khan (7) followed, but it was Wasim’s 66 off 45 (4×4, 3×6) that headlined the effort. 14 extras bolstered the scoreline in 20 overs.
New Zealand’s attack was spearheaded by Matt Henry (2/37), with wickets shared among Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips. The use of seven bowlers showed their depth and intent to disrupt.
UAE enter the tournament with this bold statement in their first match, while New Zealand seek a second straight win after thrashing Afghanistan. The chase promises edge-of-the-seat action.