UAE clinch historic T20I series win over Bangladesh in Sharjah

The UAE defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in the third T20I on Wednesday to seal a 2–1 series win — their first-ever against a Test-playing nation.

Chasing 163, Alishan Sharafu anchored the innings with an unbeaten 68 off 47 balls, while Asif Khan added a quickfire 41 as the hosts reached the target in 19.1 overs.

Earlier, left-arm spinner Haider Ali produced a match-turning spell, taking 3 for 7 in four overs to help restrict Bangladesh to 162 for 9. He dismissed key batter Litton Das early, triggering a collapse.

Sharafu was named Player of the Match, while skipper Muhammad Waseem, who scored 145 runs across the series, earned Player of the Series honours.

“We’ve made history. This win means a lot to us,” Waseem said after the match.

One MAGICAL bowling spell!! 🔥🔥🔥
Haider Ali produced a stunning spell of 4-1-7-3 which broke the back of Bangladesh's batting line-up in the T20I series decider at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium pic.twitter.com/byVHgQ0adx

— UAE Cricket Official (@EmiratesCricket) May 21, 2025