KATHMANDU: UAE secures a spot in the T20 International triangular series final. It will face Nepal in final on Friday.
Despite a setback in their last league match on Wednesday, where they lost to Hong Kong by 69 runs, UAE advanced to the finals thanks to a superior net run rate.
In a formidable chase of Hong Kong’s 213-run target at the Mulpani Cricket Ground, UAE struggled, managing only 143 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Leading up to this match, UAE held a net run rate of 0.005, while Hong Kong’s net run rate was at a deficit of -2.688.
Due to their poor run rate, Hong Kong needed a substantial victory against UAE in this game to secure a finals spot. Despite their sizable 69-run win, it wasn’t sufficient. In the last over, UAE required just 4 runs, and Hong Kong needed one more wicket, but they couldn’t make the breakthrough.
UAE’s batsmen struggled to make an impact while chasing the substantial target. Opener Khalid Shah contributed 35 runs to the total, and both Alishan Sarfoo and Basil Hameed added 30 runs each. Nilans Keshwani remained unbeaten with 31 runs.
In the toss, Hong Kong opted to bat first and posted a formidable 212 runs on the board, losing 3 wickets during their allotted 20 overs. Opener Martin displayed a brilliant half-century for Hong Kong, amassing 86 runs from 55 deliveries. Similarly, Babar Hayat showcased explosive batting, contributing 60 runs off just 20 balls, including 5 fours and 5 sixes. Ansi Rath contributed 41 runs to the total.
Nepal sits at the top of the table with eight points, having won all four of their matches. They now await their opponent in the finals, which will take place on Friday at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.
Comment