New Delhi, Feb 18 (NationPress) UAE's off-spinner Dhruv Parashar stated that the team must discover effective strategies to tackle high-quality pace bowling after succumbing to a steadfast South African bowling unit, resulting in a six-wicket loss during the final Group D match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Playing on a challenging surface affected by overnight moisture and under floodlights, Corbin Bosch exploited the conditions expertly, claiming figures of 3-12, while Anrich Nortje secured 2-28. The left-arm spinner George Linde restricted runs effectively with 1-17 as the UAE's innings faltered after a decent start.

Although Alishan Sharafu was the top scorer with 45 runs, he received little assistance from his teammates as South Africa’s bowling attack maintained a commanding grip on the game. Despite dropping four catches, the Proteas ensured the UAE never regained momentum, restricting them to 122/6.

"That is definitely one area we need to improve. Having played in the Asia Cup and a tri-series a couple of months back, I can say that our whole team faced bowlers like Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and other Afghan pacers. However, each bowler in their squad was consistently above 140-145 km/h. In New Zealand, we faced Jimmy Neesham, who is a medium pacer," he commented.

“When facing bowlers who are not comfortable with the speed, you can target them. But with their four fast bowlers all around 145, it was a new experience for us. We hadn’t faced South Africa in a while, so it was a learning curve. Now we know what to expect, and we have to prepare accordingly," he told reporters.

Parashar also noted the pitch's unpredictable behavior under overcast skies. "Today’s pitch was fresh, and the overcast conditions kept it damp. The sun didn’t shine before or during the match, which usually dries the pitch and makes it more even in the second innings. This time, it remained two-paced," he explained.

As a primary Power-play bowler, he shared that being given the new ball, in which he conceded just one run in the opening over, was a strategic decision based on matchups. "I've been bowling in this phase for the last couple of years. I’m used to this role, especially against left-handers," he added.

Despite the loss, Parashar was optimistic about the UAE's tournament performance, highlighting significant advancements in their batting throughout their World Cup journey as proof that the team is progressing positively.

"Playing against top teams will prepare us for the 2027 ODI World Cup qualification against associate nations. We have an ODI tournament in two weeks, followed by another T20 tournament. This experience against the best bowlers will build confidence as we transition to facing associate nations," he remarked.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Parashar emphasized that participating in the T20 World Cup held in India holds deep significance. After being selected for the major event despite not being part of the series against Ireland, he fulfilled a childhood dream ignited when he watched India win the ODI World Cup in 2011.

"It’s absolutely a dream come true. I began my cricketing journey after watching the 2011 World Cup, where India triumphed over Sri Lanka in the final. That was a turning point for my interest in cricket," he shared.

“Now, to compete in the World Cup in India at this stage of my career, I am immensely grateful to UAE cricket and the management for their support. I appreciate everyone who has contributed to my journey. This should be just the beginning, leading to more World Cup opportunities," he expressed.

His relatives, residing nearby in India, attended the matches, with Parashar recalling spotting his parents unexpectedly during the games. "My entire family came to support me, including my cousins from my dad's side, who live close by. My mom and dad also attended. I was unaware until I saw them during the matches,” he disclosed.

When asked about his learnings from the tournament, he stated, “Each match has offered valuable lessons, which I strive to absorb. This tournament has highlighted skill differences, but more importantly, I've learned strategic approaches to counter various teams and players. Everyone has unique strengths, and I've focused on how to plan accordingly."

Parashar confirmed that every member of the UAE squad is committed to full-time cricket. "Everyone on our team is dedicated to playing cricket full-time and participates in domestic tournaments in the UAE," he asserted.

Off the field, a strong team culture has characterized the UAE's World Cup experience, with Parashar describing a relaxed, close-knit environment fostered through activities like football, foot volleyball, and card games.

"During practice, we enjoy playing football and foot volley. It's a fun way to bond, and everyone looks forward to it. We were in Chennai before our first match, engaging in games and even playing dumb charades. There’s a great atmosphere within the team, and we all feel connected," he concluded.