By Anas Ahmed 
Waseem Leads from the Front
United Arab Emirates (UAE) showcased class and composure as they defeated Malaysia by six wickets in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025, held at the Al Amarat Cricket Ground, Oman.
Skipper Muhammad Waseem played a captain’s innings — a scintillating 84 off 53 balls, studded with nine fours and four sixes — to anchor the UAE chase. His knock, a blend of elegance and power, set the tone for a clinical victory.
Chasing 162 for victory, UAE reached 167/4 in 19.2 overs, comfortably sealing two vital points in Group A.
Malaysia Post a Respectable Total
Earlier, Malaysia put up a competitive 161/5 after opting to bat first. Opener Ahmad Faiz led from the front with a well-crafted 54 not out off 39 balls, supported by Muhammad Haziq Aiman (41 off 31) and a late cameo from Sharvin Muniandy (41 off 22).
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Malaysia maintained a steady scoring rate. However, the lack of acceleration in the middle overs proved costly, leaving them just short of a defendable total on a good batting surface.
Among UAE’s bowlers, Dhruv Parashar (1/8) bowled economically, while Haider Ali (1/22) and Muhammad Arfan (1/14) chipped in with timely breakthroughs.
Waseem, Sharafu Seal the Chase
UAE’s chase began with intent as openers Muhammad Waseem and Muhammad Arfan (11) got off to a brisk start. Waseem continued his rich vein of form, taking on the bowlers fearlessly.
He found solid support in Alishan Sharafu (34 off 31), the pair putting up a crucial 94-run stand for the second wicket. Even after Sharafu’s dismissal, the UAE captain held firm, steering the innings with maturity.
After Waseem’s departure at 139/3, Harshit Kaushik (18)* and Basil Hameed (12)* ensured there were no hiccups, finishing the game with nine balls to spare.
For Malaysia, Syed Aziz (2/20) was the standout performer with the ball, while Vijay Unni (1/25) provided support through disciplined bowling.
Brief Scores
Malaysia: 161/5 (Ahmad Faiz 54*, M. Haziq Aiman 41; Dhruv Parashar 1/8, Haider Ali 1/22)
UAE: 167/4 in 19.2 overs (Muhammad Waseem 84, Alishan Sharafu 34; Syed Aziz 2/20, Arif Ullah 1/50)
Result: UAE won by 6 wickets
Player of the Match: Muhammad Waseem (UAE)