UAE vs BAN T20I Match Preview (3rd T20I) – May 21, 2025

Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Time: 16:00 GMT / 21:30 IST
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Format: T20I (3rd of 3)
Series Standings: 1-1

Match Context

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bangladesh will face off in the final T20I of their three-match series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. This match not only decides the outcome of the series but also serves as a crucial test for both teams as they look to sharpen their credentials ahead of future international assignments.

The series is currently level at 1-1. Bangladesh kicked off the series with a dominant 27-run victory in the first T20I, while the UAE staged a remarkable comeback in the second match, winning by two wickets in a thrilling chase of 206. That win marked the UAE’s first-ever T20I victory against Bangladesh, setting up this decider with high stakes and excitement.

Team Form and Performance

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

The UAE have shown a significant improvement in their T20I cricket, particularly in the last couple of months. Their victory in the second T20I was a masterclass in chasing under pressure, led by captain Muhammad Waseem’s explosive 82 off 42 balls and a late flourish from Haider Ali, who remained unbeaten with a six off the final ball.

The UAE's batters have been in great form, and their ability to accelerate in the death overs has been a game-changing factor. With a batting-friendly pitch expected at Sharjah, the UAE will look to capitalize on their recent momentum and push for a series win.

Key Players to Watch:

• Muhammad Waseem (Captain): The middle-order anchor and explosive finisher.
• Haider Ali: Provides late-order power and composure.
• Aayan Afzal Khan: Emerging all-rounder with decent stats in the series.

Bangladesh:

Despite losing the second match, Bangladesh remain a strong side in T20I cricket. Their batting depth and experienced middle order, led by the likes of Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Das, and Aminul Islam, have been reliable in recent encounters. However, their bowling unit needs to be more consistent, especially against aggressive batting sides.

In the first T20I, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 205/3 and then defended it with composure and control. Their ability to restrict the UAE in the second match, despite a late collapse, shows their resilience.

Key Players to Watch:

• Shakib Al Hasan: All-rounder with match-winning potential.
• Liton Das: Steadying presence in the top order.
• Shoriful Islam: Left-arm pacer with good control and variations.

Venue and Pitch Analysis

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
Pitch Type: Batting-friendly
Average 1st Innings Total: 153
Average 2nd Innings Total: 127
Winning Percentage (Batting First): 57.5%
Winning Percentage (Bowling First): 42.5%

Sharjah's pitch is typically good for batting, with some assistance for spinners in the middle overs. The UAE, having won the last match here by chasing, will look to start well and take advantage of the conditions. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will need to be disciplined in both batting and bowling to ensure they don’t fall behind the run-rate.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

• 17/05/2025: Bangladesh beat UAE by 27 runs (1st T20I)
• 19/05/2025: UAE beat Bangladesh by 2 wickets (2nd T20I)
• 27/09/2022: Bangladesh beat UAE by 32 runs
• 26/02/2016: Bangladesh beat UAE by 51 runs

Bangladesh have historically dominated the UAE in T20I cricket, but the recent result is a positive sign for the home side. The UAE will be eager to prove this was no fluke and to secure a historic series win.

Prediction

With the UAE having already pulled off a memorable chase in the second T20I, they enter the final match with confidence and momentum. However, Bangladesh remain a formidable side and will not go down without a fight.

Expected Margin: Close contest
Predicted Scoreline: UAE 198 for 3 vs Bangladesh 196 for 6
Result Prediction: UAE win by 2 runs

Conclusion

The third T20I between UAE and Bangladesh promises to be an exciting and high-stakes encounter. With the series on the line and the home crowd in support, the UAE will aim to build on their recent success. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will look to bounce back and take the series with a disciplined performance. The key will be how each team handles the pressure in the final overs, as both sides are capable of pulling off a dramatic finish.

Watch the match on: FanCode (Live Streaming in India)
Time to Watch: 16:00 GMT / 21:30 IST

Stay tuned for a thrilling finale to a tightly contested series!
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