Pakistan down UAE to book another game with India
By our correspondent
DUBAI: Pakistan booked a Super Four showdown with arch-rivals India at the Asia Cup after defeating the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by 41 runs in Dubai on Wednesday.
The match began an hour late amid lingering tensions following a controversial incident in Pakistan’s previous game against India, where the Indian team refused to shake hands post-match. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had reportedly considered withdrawing from the tournament, demanding the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, who officiated that game. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected the request, and Pycroft remained in charge for the clash against the UAE.
Batting first, Pakistan posted a modest total of 146-9. Fakhar Zaman top-scored with a brisk 50 off 36 balls, while Shaheen Shah Afridi added a valuable unbeaten 29 late in the innings. Spinner Simranjeet Singh (3-26) and pacer Junaid Siddique (4-18) were the pick of the UAE bowlers.
Pakistan’s innings began poorly, losing openers Saim Ayub for a second-ball duck and Sahibzada Farhan for just five — both falling to Siddique. Zaman then steadied the innings, sharing a 61-run partnership for the third wicket with Salman Agha (20). Zaman struck three sixes and two fours before being dismissed by Simranjeet.
In the final five overs, Shaheen lifted Pakistan’s total with a crucial cameo, adding 51 runs in partnership with the lower order.
In reply, the UAE were bundled out for 105 in 17.4 overs. Abrar Ahmed led the bowling with 2-13, while Shaheen and Haris Rauf claimed two wickets each, conceding 16 and 19 runs respectively. Rahul Chopra was the top scorer for the hosts with a run-a-ball 35.
With the win, Pakistan advanced to the Super Four stage from Group A alongside India. The two sides will face off again in Dubai on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Group B remains undecided, with Sri Lanka set to face Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi to determine who progresses. Bangladesh, with two wins from three matches, also remain in contention.