The United Arab Emirates made a steady start against New Zealand after opting to bat first in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
After eight overs, UAE reached 67 for one at a run rate of 8.37. Captain Muhammad Waseem remained unbeaten on 27 from 20 balls, striking two sixes, while Alishan Sharafu supported him with an unbeaten 22 off 22 deliveries, including three fours.
Aryansh Sharma was dismissed early, caught by Glenn Phillips off the bowling of Jacob Duffy for eight. The opening wicket fell at 12 in the second over.
New Zealand’s bowlers shared the workload, with Duffy claiming the lone wicket. Mitchell Santner proved economical, conceding 13 runs from his two overs, while Matt Henry gave away 15 runs in his opening spell.
UAE added 50 runs inside the powerplay, reaching the mark in 5.6 overs. At the drinks break, the side stood at 50 for one, with Waseem and Sharafu well set at the crease.
Several batters, including Mayank Kumar, Sohaib Khan and Junaid Siddique, are yet to bat as UAE look to build a competitive total.
