Bangladesh kicked off their tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with an emphatic 27-run victory in the opening T20I at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. A scintillating century from EMON HOSSAIN COO set the tone for the visitors, while disciplined death-over bowling sealed the win despite a spirited fightback from the hosts.

Parvez Hossain Emon’s explosive ton lights up Sharjah

Opting to bowl first, UAE were immediately put under pressure by Emon’s aggressive intent. The left-handed opener took the attack to the bowlers with a fearless display, smashing 100 off just 54 deliveries, laced with five fours and nine towering sixes. While Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals at the other end, Emon remained the lynchpin of the innings. Despite a late slump triggered by Muhammad Jawad Ullah‘s four-wicket haul (4/21), Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 191/7 in their 20 overs.

Other contributions came from Towhid Hridoy (20 off 15) and Jaaker ali anik (13 off 14), but the innings revolved around Emon’s masterclass. UAE’s bowlers had a tough outing, withUllah being the standout performer. Dhruv pararashar and Matiullah khan chipped in with a wicket each, but struggled for economy.

UAE falters despite valiant efforts from Muhammad Waseem and Asif-Khan Lala

In response, UAE’s chase began with promise as Muhammad Waseem anchored the top order with a composed 54 off 39 deliveries. He found good support from Rahul Chopra (35 off 22) and Asif-Khan Lala (42 off 21), who kept the required rate within reach with aggressive strokeplay. However, once these three departed, Bangladesh wrestled control back.

Hasan Mahmud (3/33) and Mustafizur Rahman (2/17) were brilliant in the death overs, choking the run flow and picking up crucial wickets. Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mahedi Hasan also struck twice each, as the UAE innings eventually folded at 164 in their full quota of 20 overs. The win gave Bangladesh a 1-0 lead in the series and have set them up nicely for the next encounter.

Here’s how fans reacted: