Fast bowler Ahmads of Afghanistan denies conceding a consolation victory to UAE in the tri-series tournament.

In a thrilling Twenty20 encounter, Afghanistan managed to defeat the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by a narrow margin of four runs. The match, played with high intensity and exciting moments, saw both teams display their skills and determination.

The UAE, needing 17 runs from the final over, ended their innings on 166-5. Fareed Ahmad, with his two fuller balls, didn't concede a run, setting the stage for a tense finale. However, it was Asif Khan who took the spotlight, bringing the target down to five runs off the final three balls.

The UAE's captain, Muhammad Waseem, put up a valiant effort, scoring 44 runs, including three sixes and two fours, in his 29-ball innings. However, his innings was cut short when he was dismissed caught behind off Abdollah Ahmadzai's short ball in the 11th over. On the last ball, Khan holed out at long-off on 40.

Spinners Haider Ali, Sharafuddin Ashraf, and Noor Ahmad played crucial roles in the match. Haider Ali took 2-23, while Ashraf and Ahmad conceded 20 and 23 runs respectively. In the middle overs, these spinners squeezed the runs, making it difficult for the UAE batsmen to score freely.

For Afghanistan, the opening pair of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran put on a 98-run stand. Gurbaz scored 40, while Zadran made 48. Karim Jannat and Gulbadin Naib also contributed with cameos, with Jannat scoring 28 and Naib scoring 20 not out.

Despite resting six frontline players, including captain Rashid Khan, for the upcoming final against Pakistan, Afghanistan's batting line-up showed resilience. They made 170-4 in their match, setting a challenging target for the UAE.

In the end, it was the bowling performance, particularly Asif Khan's final over, that sealed the victory for Afghanistan. The UAE, despite a valiant effort, came up short, highlighting the close nature of the match. Afghanistan will now face Pakistan in the final, aiming to continue their winning streak.

Fast bowler Ahmads of Afghanistan denies conceding a consolation victory to UAE in the tri-series tournament.