Nahayan hails ‘another glorious chapter' as UAE stun Bangladesh to make history
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board, led the plaudits after the UAE Men's cricket team stunned Bangladesh in a memorable 2-1 series victory, calling it 'another glorious chapter in our cricketing history.'
The series, played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, saw UAE bounce back after losing the opening match to defeat their more experienced opponents in the final two games.
The decider on Wednesday night was won convincingly, as Haider Ali's spectacular 3 for 7 derailed the Bangladesh innings before Alishan Sharafu (68 not out) and Asif Khan (41 not out) sealed the chase with a composed, unbeaten 87-run stand.
'The Emirates Cricket Board is delighted with the outstanding performance of the UAE Men's team in the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh,' Sheikh Nahayan said. 'The team played brilliantly in the whole series while the support staff put in the hard yards to make the victory possible.
'I want to congratulate the entire squad and wish them the very best in their upcoming international assignments. The ECB will continue to provide the best possible facilities and exposure to our immensely talented players. UAE continues to impress in the T20I format and the Bangladesh series win is another glorious chapter in our cricketing history.
'In the recent past, the team has defeated formidable Test playing opponents like Afghanistan and New Zealand. The series win will give immense confidence and self-belief to our players and make them take on bigger and more established opponents.'
The win underscores UAE's rapid rise in international cricket, especially in the T20 format, where they are increasingly competing with — and beating — Full Member nations. With this victory, the team has reaffirmed their credentials and sent a strong message to future opponents.
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