United Arab Emirates vs Pakistan will clash in a Men’s International Twenty20 Match at Sharjah Cricket Association Stadium, Sharjah on 4 September, with play beginning at 19:30 IST (16:00 UK time). Pakistan will look to continue their dominance in Asian conditions, while the UAE hope to make a statement on home soil against one of the world’s leading T20 sides.
Form Guide
United Arab Emirates
The UAE have been steadily improving in T20 cricket, developing a pool of exciting young batters and disciplined bowlers. While results against top-tier nations have been scarce, their familiarity with Sharjah’s slow conditions could play to their advantage. They will look to frustrate Pakistan with spin and rely on boundary-hitters to post competitive totals.
- Top order still inexperienced but capable of quick runs in the powerplay.
- Spin bowlers central to UAE’s chances on Sharjah’s low, turning pitch.
- Home support and knowledge of conditions a potential advantage.
Pakistan
Pakistan are one of the most consistent T20 sides in the world, with a formidable opening pair and a bowling attack that thrives in Asian conditions. Their blend of explosive batting and skilful bowling makes them favourites heading into this contest. With world-class spinners and pace spearheads, they will be tough to beat in Sharjah.
- Opening pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan remains one of the best in the format.
- Pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, effective in all phases.
- Spin strength from Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, key in Sharjah.
Key Players
United Arab Emirates
- Muhammad Waseem – Explosive opener and UAE’s most consistent run-scorer.
- Rohan Mustafa – Experienced allrounder, providing middle-order stability and handy overs of off-spin.
- Junaid Siddique – Strike bowler with pace and bounce, tasked with breaking Pakistan’s top order.
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – Skipper and anchor, Pakistan’s premier batter with unmatched consistency.
- Mohammad Rizwan – Dynamic wicketkeeper-opener, combining reliability with aggression.
- Shaheen Afridi – Left-arm pacer, lethal with the new ball and at the death.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Sharjah’s pitch is traditionally slow and low, suiting spinners and making timing difficult for batters. Short boundaries, however, mean aggressive stroke-makers can still prosper. Dew may play a role in the evening, giving chasing sides an advantage. Weather conditions are hot and dry, with no interruptions expected.
United Arab Emirates vs Pakistan – Prediction
The UAE’s chances will hinge on Muhammad Waseem providing a powerplay surge and Rohan Mustafa contributing in both departments. However, Pakistan’s depth and balance, led by Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, give them a commanding edge. Prediction: Pakistan to record a dominant win in Sharjah.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Captain: Babar Azam – consistent run-scorer and safest fantasy captaincy choice.
- Vice-captain: Muhammad Waseem – UAE’s standout batter, capable of high-impact innings.
- Value pick: Shaheen Afridi – wicket-taking pacer, ideal for fantasy points across phases.