Sohaib Khan’s 68-run knock powers UAE to 160 runs:Azmatullah Omarzai bags 4 wickets; Afghanistan need 161 runs to win

UAE had a shaky start as they lost opener Aryansh Sharma in the first over. Soon after, Muhammad Waseem was trapped LBW by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, leaving UAE struggling at 13/2. Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained tight lines and did not allow the batters to settle easily. However, despite the early setbacks, UAE showed great fighting spirit. A strong partnership in the middle overs helped them recover and post a competitive total on the board. Afghanistan will now look to chase 161 runs, while UAE will hope their bowlers can defend the total and create an upset. Sohaib-Sharafu lead UAE’s fightback despite early collapse After losing two early wickets, Sohaib Khan and Alishan Sharafu steadied the innings with a crucial partnership. The duo added important runs and shifted the momentum back towards UAE. Sharafu played an aggressive knock of 40 runs off 31 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes. Sohaib Khan was even more impressive, scoring a brilliant 68 off 48 deliveries. His innings included six fours and four sixes, and he brought up his half-century with a powerful six off Rashid Khan. The partnership crossed fifty runs and helped UAE move past the 100-run mark. Their smart shot selection and calculated aggression gave the team hope of posting a big total. Afghanistan’s fight back in death overs Just when UAE looked set for a strong finish, Afghanistan pulled things back with excellent bowling in the final overs. Azmatullah Omarzai was outstanding, picking up four important wickets and finishing with figures of 4 for 15 in his four overs. He removed key batters at crucial moments and broke UAE’s momentum. Rashid Khan also made history during the match. He claimed his 700th T20 wicket and also saw Muhammad Arfan get out hit-wicket, which was a rare dismissal. Mujeeb Ur Rahman chipped in with two wickets, including the important scalp of Muhammad Waseem. In the final over, UAE lost two run-outs while trying to push for extra runs. Junaid Siddique was run out on the last ball as Afghanistan’s fielders showed sharp awareness. UAE eventually finished at 160/9 in their 20 overs.