This victory stands as one of the finest achievements for UAE in a T20 match against a test-playing nation.
Captain Mohammad Waseem played a remarkable innings, scoring a risky half-century, and led the United Arab Emirates to a resounding victory over a struggling New Zealand team, thereby leveling their Twenty20 series on Saturday.
Waseem took full advantage of two dropped catches and expertly chased down the target, scoring a quickfire 55 off just 29 balls. UAE comfortably reached a total of 144-3, securing a seven-wicket win with over three overs to spare. This victory stands as one of the finest achievements for UAE in a T20 match against a test-playing nation.
New Zealand's top order faced immense pressure from the left-arm spin of Aaayan Afzal Khan, who claimed three crucial wickets for just 20 runs. However, Mark Chapman's valiant effort of 63 runs off 46 balls provided some resistance, allowing the Kiwis to reach a total of 142-8.
In their attempt to defend the total, the New Zealand bowlers received little support from their fielders. Kyle Jamiesen dropped a straightforward catch off Waseem during the batting powerplay, while James Neesham made an exceptional catch in the slips to dismiss Aryansh Sharma in the first over.
Waseem displayed his power-hitting skills by smashing three sixes and four boundaries. He formed crucial partnerships, contributing 40 runs with Vriitya Aravind (25) for the second wicket and 56 runs with Asif Khan, who remained unbeaten on 48.
Waseem's innings came to an end in the 11th over when he was caught by Tim Southee. However, Khan ensured the UAE's victory by hitting two fours and a six against Southee in the 16th over.
New Zealand struggled to gain momentum on the slow pitch at Dubai International Stadium. Aayan bowled exceptionally well during the powerplay, causing trouble for the Kiwis. Their decision to send Mitchell Santner at No. 3 backfired as Aayan took two wickets in consecutive deliveries, clean bowling Santner and Dane Cleaver.
Chapman and Neesham attempted to rebuild the innings with a 53-run partnership, but the UAE prevented the Kiwis from accelerating their scoring. Chapman was one of only three batters to reach double figures.
Despite suffering from cramps in the latter half of the New Zealand innings, fast bowler Mohammad Jawadullah finished with impressive figures of 2-16.
The third and final game of the series will take place on Sunday. New Zealand has chosen to rest key T20 players for the UAE series and will then move on to England for a limited-overs series.
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