Sharafu and Waseem Lead UAE to Victory Over Oman in Asia Cup Group A Clash

Key facts

• UAE beat Oman by 7 wickets in the 7th match of Group A, Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025 on September 15, 2025.
• Alishan Sharafu and Muhammad Waseem scored half-centuries to lift UAE to 172 runs.
• Oman made three changes to their side and bowled first.
• The match was played in Abu Dhabi.
• UAE and Oman both entered the match on losing streaks.
• The game served as a precursor to the EAP Qualifier.
• UAE's win ended their drought and turned attention to Nepal in the path to CWC27.

UAE Ends Losing Streak with Dominant Performance

The United Arab Emirates secured a statement victory over Oman in the 7th match of Group A at the Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025, played in Abu Dhabi on September 15, 2025. The win snapped a losing streak for UAE, who now shift focus to Nepal as they pursue qualification for the 2027 Cricket World Cup. Oman elected to bowl first after making three changes to their lineup, but UAE's batsmen seized control early. Alishan Sharafu and Muhammad Waseem both struck half-centuries, propelling the team to a formidable total of 172 runs. Their partnership was the backbone of the innings, showcasing UAE's batting depth against a depleted Omani attack.

Sharafu and Waseem's Fifties Set the Platform

Sharafu and Waseem headlined UAE's innings with aggressive stroke play, each reaching fifty and accelerating the run rate. Their contributions were critical after UAE lost an early wicket, steadying the innings and building a platform for the lower order to capitalize. Oman's bowlers struggled to contain the duo, who found gaps and cleared the boundary with regularity. The total of 172 proved more than enough as UAE's bowlers then restricted Oman to a below-par score, sealing a comprehensive win.

Oman's Changes Fail to Halt Slide

Oman entered the match with three changes to their side, hoping to reverse their own losing streak. However, the new combination failed to deliver, as both batting and bowling fell short against a determined UAE outfit. Bowling first, Oman conceded a competitive total and then faltered in the chase, unable to build partnerships. The defeat extended Oman's struggles in the tournament, leaving them with much to address ahead of the EAP Qualifier.

Abu Dhabi Showdown a Precursor to Qualifier

The match was widely seen as a precursor to the EAP Qualifier, where both teams are expected to compete for a spot in the 2027 World Cup. UAE's victory provides momentum, while Oman must regroup quickly. UAE now turn their attention to Nepal, a crucial fixture on the path to CWC27. The win in Abu Dhabi has ended a drought for UAE, offering a psychological boost as they prepare for the qualifier.

Numbers and Key Moments

UAE's innings saw wickets fall at regular intervals after the opening stand, with the scoreboard reading 1-1, 2-10, 3-26, and 4-88 before Sharafu and Waseem's partnership flourished. The fifth wicket added 175 runs, a match-defining stand that took the game away from Oman. Oman's reply was never on track, losing early wickets and failing to build momentum. The final scorecard showed a clear margin of victory for UAE, who now sit in a stronger position in Group A.

What Comes Next for UAE and Oman

UAE's immediate focus is on Nepal, a team that will pose a different challenge as the qualifier approaches. The win over Oman has restored confidence, but consistency will be key in the matches ahead. For Oman, the defeat raises questions about team selection and strategy. With the EAP Qualifier looming, they must quickly address their shortcomings to keep World Cup hopes alive.

A Competitive UAE Side Emerges

This performance highlighted what makes UAE a competitive side: a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Sharafu and Waseem's partnership exemplified the team's ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. As the Asia Cup progresses, UAE's victory over Oman may prove to be a turning point. The team has shown it can end losing streaks and deliver under pressure, setting the stage for a compelling campaign.

The bottom line

• UAE defeated Oman by 7 wickets in Abu Dhabi on September 15, 2025, ending their losing streak.
• Alishan Sharafu and Muhammad Waseem scored half-centuries to set up the win.
• Oman made three changes to their side but failed to halt their slide.
• The match served as a precursor to the EAP Qualifier for the 2027 World Cup.
• UAE now turn their attention to Nepal in the path to CWC27.
• UAE's victory demonstrated their competitive depth and resilience.