How Can UAE Improve Their Bowling Execution, Asks Skipper Waseem?
Synopsis
In the aftermath of a disappointing defeat against New Zealand, UAE's cricket captain Muhammad Waseem calls for enhanced bowling tactics and strategic execution ahead of their upcoming match against Canada. The team aims to overcome the setback and focus on improving their performance in the T20 World Cup.
Key Takeaways
UAE's need for improved bowling execution .
Record opening partnership by New Zealand .
Alishan Sharafu's impressive performance .
UAE's focus on upcoming match against Canada .
Positive outlook on team development .
Chennai, Feb 10 (NationPress) The captain of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Muhammad Waseem, acknowledged that his team did not meet expectations and stressed the importance of enhancing their bowling skills after suffering a 10-wicket defeat against New Zealand.
Tim Seifert and Finn Allen set a remarkable record for the highest opening partnership of 175 runs, leading New Zealand to a decisive victory over the UAE in a Group C match held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Waseem pointed out that a stronger bowling display was essential given the favorable conditions of the pitch.
“As I mentioned before, we were short by 15-20 runs. Our bowling unit needs to elevate its performance. The pitch was ideal. We must be more strategic in our execution with the ball, determining which deliveries to bowl to specific batters at the right times,” he stated.
The UAE is set to face Canada on Friday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Waseem called for his team to improve their execution and quickly shift their focus to the upcoming match.
“We are eager for the upcoming game against Canada. It’s important to move beyond this loss and look ahead,” he added.
Waseem, alongside Alishan Sharafu, contributed significantly to the UAE’s batting with an impressive second-wicket partnership of 107 runs, which now stands as the second-highest second-wicket stand for the UAE in T20 internationals.
The UAE concluded the Powerplay with a score of 50/1, marking their highest Powerplay score in T20 World Cups. Their previous records included 46/1 against Ireland in Sylhet in 2014, 31/2 versus Zimbabwe in Sylhet in 2014, and 31/0 against the Netherlands in Geelong in 2022. Rising to the occasion against a Test-playing nation, Sharafu achieved a commendable half-century, including a six off his 39th ball.
Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner provided a pivotal breakthrough with an exceptional fielding effort. The dismissal was made possible by remarkable teamwork at the midwicket boundary, where Mark Chapman kept the ball in play before relaying it to Daryl Mitchell as Sharafu was out for 55 runs.
He also remarked on the positives from Alishan Sharafu’s performance, expressing confidence in the young player's continued success despite the team’s setback. “Alishan is an exceptionally talented player. I have highlighted his skills in previous discussions, and my views remain the same. He is indeed very talented.”
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the challenges faced by the UAE team in this T20 World Cup. The emphasis on strategic execution in bowling reflects a growing understanding of the competitive nature of international cricket, demonstrating their commitment to improvement.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem say after the loss to New Zealand?
Waseem admitted the team fell short and emphasized the need to enhance their bowling execution for future matches.
What was the record set by New Zealand in the match against UAE?
New Zealand established a world record opening partnership of 175 runs during their match against the UAE.
Who was the standout player for the UAE in the match?
Alishan Sharafu was a standout performer, scoring a half-century and forming a notable second-wicket partnership.
What is the UAE's next match in the T20 World Cup?
The UAE will face Canada next at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
How did UAE perform in the Powerplay against New Zealand?
UAE finished the Powerplay with a score of 50/1, marking their highest Powerplay score in T20 World Cups.
