T20 World Cup 2026: UAE Fell 15–20 Runs Short Against New Zealand, Says Skipper Muhammad Waseem
Chennai: United Arab Emirates skipper Muhammad Waseem admitted that his side fell slightly short with the bat despite posting a competitive total against New Zealand national cricket team in their Group C clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Powered by Waseem’s highest individual score in T20 internationals and a fluent half-century from Alishan Sharafu, the UAE posted 173 for six, their highest total in T20 World Cup history. However, Waseem said the middle overs proved decisive and cost his side valuable runs.
He said the batting effort from the top order was encouraging, highlighting contributions from himself, Sharafu and Mayank Kumar, but added that the team failed to maximise the middle phase of the innings. According to Waseem, while the score was competitive, the conditions suggested that another 15 to 20 runs could have made a significant difference.
Waseem and Sharafu shared a 107-run stand for the second wicket, which is now the UAE’s second-highest partnership for that wicket in T20 internationals. The UAE also recorded their highest Power-play score in T20 World Cups, reaching 50 for one in the first six overs.
Sharafu rose to the occasion against a Test-playing nation, bringing up his half-century with a six off his 39th delivery. His innings came to an end following sharp fielding from New Zealand, with Mark Chapman keeping the ball in play near the midwicket boundary before Daryl Mitchell completed the relay catch. The breakthrough was initiated by New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner.
Waseem then took charge, reaching his half-century in 37 balls and providing late momentum to lift the UAE to a record total. Despite the strong finish, he described the surface as excellent for batting, saying the ball was coming nicely onto the bat, which reinforced his belief that the side ended slightly below par.
Looking ahead to the defence of the total, Waseem said the UAE would rely on their bowlers and fielders to give their best effort, stressing that the team would stay focused on execution and discipline.
Our Thoughts
The UAE’s batting display showed clear progress, particularly in their intent and ability to build partnerships against top opposition. Muhammad Waseem’s assessment points to a familiar challenge for emerging teams — converting strong starts into match-defining totals. While 173 reflected growth and confidence, marginal lapses in the middle overs underlined how fine the margins are at World Cup level. The performance, however, reinforces that the UAE are no longer content with competing; they are now pushing to challenge established sides.