How Did Skipper Waseem’s Record Fifty Propel UAE to Their Highest Total Against NZ?
Synopsis
In a remarkable match at the T20 World Cup 2026, UAE's Skipper Muhammad Waseem's record fifty, complemented by Alishan Sharafu's performance, led the team to set their highest total against New Zealand. The thrilling game at MA Chidambaram Stadium showcased UAE's batting prowess and strategic play.
Key Takeaways
Muhammad Waseem's Alishan Sharafu UAE achieved their highest Power-play score in T20 World Cup history.
The partnership of 107 runs is a notable achievement for UAE.
New Zealand's Glenn Phillips had the most expensive over in T20 World Cup history.
Chennai, Feb 10 (NationPress) In a stunning display, Skipper Muhammad Waseem’s personal best, alongside Alishan Sharafu’s stellar fifties, enabled the United Arab Emirates to achieve their highest T20 World Cup total of 173/6 against New Zealand during the Group C clash of the 2026 edition at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Choosing to bat first, UAE faced an early challenge as Aryansh Sharma (8) fell in the second over due to exceptional bowling by Jacob Duffy.
Waseem then formed a formidable partnership with Sharafu, leading UAE's batting with a remarkable second-wicket stand. Together, they amassed 107 runs, marking it as the second-highest second-wicket partnership for UAE in T20 internationals, only trailing the national record of 111 runs set by Ashfaq Ahmed and Ghulam Shabber against the Netherlands in The Hague in 2019.
UAE concluded the Power-play at 50/1, their highest score in T20 World Cups to date. Their previous bests were 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. Sharafu showcased his talent against a Test-playing nation, scoring a brilliant half-century, capped by a six off his 39th delivery.
New Zealand's captain Mitchell Santner provided the pivotal breakthrough with a moment of brilliance, executing an impressive tag-fielding move at the midwicket boundary. Mark Chapman managed to keep the ball in play before passing it to Daryl Mitchell as Sharafu departed on 55.
Waseem dominated the innings with his diverse shot selection, reaching his half-century in just 37 balls, followed by a late flourish that helped UAE secure their highest T20 World Cup total.
New Zealand faced a challenging moment when Glenn Phillips conceded 27 runs in the 18th over, marking the most expensive over by a New Zealand bowler in T20 World Cup history.
Despite losing wickets towards the end, Waseem’s unbeaten 66 ensured a competitive total for UAE.
For New Zealand, Matt Henry took two wickets, with Santner, Phillips, Duffy, and Ferguson each contributing with one wicket.
Brief scores:
UAE 173/6 in 20 overs (Muhammad Waseem 66 not out, Alishan Sharafu 55; Matt Henry 2-37, Mitchell Santner 1-23) against New Zealand.
Point of View
I believe this remarkable performance by the UAE team highlights their growth in international cricket. With Skipper Waseem and Sharafu leading the charge, the UAE has showcased their potential on a global stage, and it is a testament to the evolving cricket landscape in the nation.
NationPress
1 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was UAE's highest total in T20 World Cup history?
UAE's highest total in T20 World Cup history is 173 runs, achieved against New Zealand in the Group C match of the 2026 edition.
Who scored the highest runs for UAE in this match?
Skipper Muhammad Waseem scored the highest runs for UAE in this match, finishing with an unbeaten score of 66.
What was the significant partnership during the match?
The significant partnership was between Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu, who put together 107 runs for the second wicket.
Who took the most wickets for New Zealand in the match?
Matt Henry took the most wickets for New Zealand in the match, claiming two wickets.
How did UAE perform in the Power-play?
UAE finished the Power-play with a score of 50/1, marking their highest Power-play score in T20 World Cup history.
