Samaira Dharnidharka and Esha Oza star as UAE stun Netherlands in T20 World Cup Qualifier

The UAE have battled their way back into contention for a semi-final place at the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier after a crushing win over the Netherlands.

The national team dominated the Dutch as they claimed a 10-wicket victory at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

It breathed life back into their qualification hopes. Their chances had been damaged by losses to Ireland and Zimbabwe in their opening two games.

However, the win against the Dutch means four teams are now level on two points in the group, with Ireland leading the way with two wins from two.

The national team play Vanuatu on Friday requiring a convincing win. If other results then go their way, they could earn a place in the last four. The two finalists in this 10-team competition will advance to the World Cup.

This was the UAE’s most polished display to date at this level. They did get arguably a bigger scalp when they first played at a global qualifier, in beating Zimbabwe on the neighbouring field at the Tolerance Oval in Abu Dhabi two years ago.

That win, though, was attained in nervy fashion, with Zimbabwean jitters contributing to a thrilling last ball win for the host nation.

One DAZZLING performance by the girls as Netherlands are restricted to 101 for 9 (20 overs) in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier clash at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Match details: https://t.co/5Bf2IFb1rI
Watch live: https://t.co/FPYdpjFFLN pic.twitter.com/et0qNcl82x

This time around, the UAE were giving away just one place in the ICC rankings, but from start to finish they outclassed their opposition.

Their effort in the field was book ended by the excellence of Samaira Dharnidharka. The Sharjah-born pace-bowler, who only recently turned 17, accounted for the two mainstays