United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sealed their position in the semifinal of the ACC Men’s Premier Cup. UAE defeated Bahrain in their last group stage match on Wednesday to confirm their seat. Muhammad Waseem’s side were victorious by eight wickets at Mulpani Cricket Ground.
Opting to bat first didn’t work well for Bahrain, as they were wrapped up for 116 in 40.5 overs. Bahrain’s batter couldn’t deal with UAE’s spinners. Aayan Khan was the pick of a bowler, grabbing four wickets. Rohan Mustafa and Karthik Meiyappan also pocketed two each.
Skipper Haider Butt and no.10 batter Ali Dawood scored 23 runs each for Bahrain. Meanwhile, three batters were dismissed for a duck.
In response, UAE chased the target in 27.4 overs, losing just two wickets. They were 21/2 in the ninth over, with Abdul Majid dismissing both openers. Vriitya Aravind and Roshan Mustafa then added 99 runs and took their side home. Aravind made 62*, whereas Mustafa scored 56-ball 50*.
Either Kuwait or Hong Kong will grab the semifinal spot from Group B. If Kuwait can stun Hong Kong, they will march ahead; otherwise, Hong Kong will advance.
Nepal will face UAE in the semifinal if Nepal and Hong Kong win Thursday’s clash.
