UAE stun New Zealand in second T20I for series equalizer

The second T20I of the ongoing series between New Zealand and the UAE finally got underway, and the UAE stunned the Black Caps by causing an upset over them to level the series. New Zealand came into the game on the back of a win in the first T20I and aimed to clinch the series; however, the UAE had different plans.

New Zealand came in to bat after losing the toss, and after Chad Bowes’ 21-run knock to open the innings, the side’s top order failed to capitalize. Mark Chapman stabilized the innings for his side, scoring 63 runs in 46 deliveries. Furthermore, James Neesham’s 21-run knock helped the Black Caps score 142 runs in the first innings. 

Aayan Afzal Khan was the highest wicket-taker in the first innings for the UAE. Taking three wickets and conceding 20 runs in four overs, Afzal Khan made a huge impact for his side. Muhammad Jawadullah took two wickets, with Ali Naseer, Zahoor Khan, and Mohammed Faraazuddin taking one wicket each.

Excellent run chase propelled UAE to a seven-wicket victory

New Zealand looked to defend their target and aim for the series win. However, the UAE put forth an excellent performance during the run chase. After Aryansh Sharma’s dismissal for a duck, skipper Muhammad Waseem played a brilliant knock, scoring 55 runs in 29 deliveries. Vriitya Aravind scored 25 runs, with Asif Khan amassing 48* runs in 2 deliveries. 

The UAE stunned New Zealand and won the game by seven wickets. In the second innings, the Black Caps were unable to make an impact with the ball. Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner, and Kyle Jamieson took one wicket each but conceded too many runs in the process as they succumbed to defeat.

With the series level, both sides will have all to play for in the third and final T20I of the series, which is scheduled to begin on Sunday, August 20.