India A registered a comfortable 7-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Match 8 of the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024, played at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground.

UAE struggles with the bat

After opting to bat first, UAE’s innings got off to a shaky start. Opener Aryansh Sharma fell cheaply for 1 run, and the team lost wickets at regular intervals. Mayank Rajesh Kumar (10) and Nilansh Keswani (5) were unable to build any momentum, leaving the middle-order under pressure. Rahul Chopra provided the only significant resistance, anchoring the innings with a steady 50 off 50 balls, including two fours and three sixes. Basil Hameed contributed a quickfire 22 off 12 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to deliver.

India A’s bowlers were relentless from the start. Rasikh Salam was the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 15 runs in his 2 overs. Ramandeep Singh (2/7) also played a key role, while Vaibhav Arora picked up a wicket, conceding just 8 runs in his 2 overs. UAE’s innings was wrapped up for 107 in 16.5 overs, leaving India A with a comfortable chase.

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India A’s commanding chase

Chasing 108 to win, India A got off to a brisk start despite losing Prabhsimran Singh early for 8 runs. However, opener Abhishek Sharma took charge of the innings with a brilliant 58 off 24 balls, smashing 5 fours and 4 sixes. His aggressive approach ensured India A were always ahead of the required run rate.

Tilak Varma (21 off 18) provided support with a steady knock, while Ayush Badoni chipped in with a quick 12 not out off 9 balls to guide India A to victory. The Men in Blue reached 111/3 in just 10.5 overs, securing a dominant win by 7 wickets.

With this win, India A have qualified for the semifinals and will play Oman next in their last Group B fixture on Wednesday, October 23.

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