Karachi: After a gap of nine years, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will face each other in a T20 International on Saturday as part of the ongoing triangular series in Sharjah.
The Green Shirts are eager to deliver a strong performance, while the hosts’ captain has also expressed high hopes.
The last and only T20 International between the two sides was played during the 2016 ICC World T20 in Mirpur, Bangladesh, where Pakistan, led by Shahid Afridi, secured a seven-wicket victory.
After losing three wickets for just 17 runs, Umar Akmal and Shoaib Malik put together an unbeaten 114-run partnership to steer their team home.
Now, as the two teams meet again in Sharjah, Pakistan will be aiming for another commanding win. On the other hand, UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem said his side is determined to showcase an improved performance. He termed the opportunity to play against two of Asia’s top teams as a “milestone and a matter of pride” in the UAE’s cricketing journey.
UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem expressed pride in facing high-caliber teams, calling it “another milestone” in the country’s cricketing development. “Playing against two of Asia’s strongest sides is a matter of honor and a valuable opportunity for us as an associate nation,”
Waseem said. “We’ve had recent success against teams like Afghanistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, and we believe we’re capable of delivering strong performances here as well.”
He further praised the composition of the Emirati squad, describing it as a “perfect blend of experience and youth.” Waseem lauded the commitment and form of the younger players, emphasizing that their consistent preparation over the past six weeks has placed them in a competitive position.
“While Sharjah may feel like a home ground for all three teams, our preparations and recent form give us reason to believe we can perform well,” he added. “I’m confident we’ll play quality cricket and challenge our opponents with full intensity.”
As both teams prepare to take the field, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting contest one that could reignite a competitive spirit between the two cricketing nations after nearly a decade.