UAE script historic win over Bangladesh in thrilling T20I clash at Sharjah

In a sensational finish, UAE edged past Bangladesh by two wickets in the second T20I at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, chasing down a challenging target of 206 in dramatic fashion to level the three-match series 1-1. The victory marked a historic win for the UAE, their first against a Test-playing nation in T20 internationals.

Chasing 205 for 5 set by Bangladesh, UAE held their nerve in a match that swung wildly in the final overs. Haider Ali, playing only his second T20I, emerged as the hero, steering his side to victory in the last over amid chaotic scenes.

With UAE needing 12 runs from the final over, bowled by Tanzim Sakib, the tension peaked. Sakib began with a wide before Dhruv Parashar launched a six to reduce the equation. Just as Bangladesh clawed back with Parashar's dismissal, a high full toss no-ball and fielding blunder from Towhid Hridoy allowed UAE to scramble the remaining runs. Haider struck the penultimate delivery over point and capitalised on the misfield to complete two vital runs, sealing a famous win.

Earlier, UAE captain Muhammad Waseem set the tone for the chase with a blistering 82 off 42 balls. His opening stand of 107 with Aryan Lakra (42) gave UAE the perfect platform, particularly targeting debutant pacer Nahid Rana, who leaked 32 runs in his first two overs.

However, Bangladesh clawed back into the game as Shoriful Islam removed Waseem, triggering a middle-order collapse. UAE slipped from 148 for 2 to 177 for 6 within 17 deliveries, giving the visitors a sniff at victory before Haider's calm finish under pressure sealed the contest.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh posted 205 for 5 after being sent in to bat. Tanzid Hasan Tamim gave the Tigers a flying start with a 25-ball fifty, forming a 90-run opening partnership with Liton Das (40 off 32). The Powerplay yielded 66 runs without loss as Bangladesh looked to set a commanding total.

The innings lost a bit of momentum following Tanzid's dismissal for 58 in the 10th over. Najmul Hossain Shanto (27 off 19) and Liton departed in quick succession, but a late flourish from Towhid Hridoy (45 off 24) and Jaker Ali (18 off 6) helped Bangladesh post a competitive total.

Bangladesh made four changes for the match, bringing in Shanto, Rishad Hossain, Shoriful Islam, and Nahid Rana. Despite the batting performance, their bowling and fielding left much to be desired in the closing stages of the match.

With the series now tied 1-1, the decider will be played at the same venue on May 21, setting the stage for another gripping encounter between the two sides.