UAE claim greatest scalp yet after beating New Zealand on triumphant night in Dubai

The UAE claimed the greatest scalp yet in the history of the game in the country as they beat New Zealand at Dubai International Stadium.

The touring side are ranked No 3 in the world, and they had played in the T20 World Cup final at the same ground the last time they toured UAE two years ago.

And yet they were soundly beaten by a thriving young UAE side, who controlled the game from more or less start to finish. They sealed a seven-wicket win with over four overs to spare.

To add to the cheeriness, there were even people there to see it. The UAE have played in front of bigger crowds before, at Asia Cups, World Cups, and when they are facing cricket-mad Nepal. It is questionable whether they have ever had more home support than this, though.

It may have appeared diluted in the vastness of the 25,000-seater Dubai International Stadium, but it was a very appreciable turnout, well into four figures. And the loudest cheers were for the home team.

Admittedly, it was good natured in both directions. At one stage in the first innings, a handful of young children were sat on the railings on the boundary edge. They were wearing All Blacks rugby shirts, but waving UAE flags.

Having won the toss and opted the field for the second time in two games, the home side were again outstanding with the ball.

Mohammed Jawadullah set the tone, both by the way he started with the new ball, then how he battled through pain to keep them in the ascendancy.

The left-armer, who works as an electrician in Al Ain, was into the side as a replacement for Junaid Siddique, the senior fast bowler in the squad.

He bowled Tim Seifert, New Zealand’s top scorer in the first game, cheaply.

Aayan Khan, right, picked up three wickets for the UAE against New