UAE’s young batter Alishan Sharafu delivered a standout performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scoring a crucial half-century against New Zealand at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. His composed innings helped UAE recover from an early setback and build a strong platform in this important Group D match.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, UAE lost an early wicket. However, Sharafu walked in at No. 3 and showed maturity beyond his years, stabilising the innings and keeping the scoreboard moving on a challenging surface.
Match Highlights
Sharafu formed a vital second-wicket partnership with captain Muhammad Waseem. The duo added 107 runs, which became UAE highest partnership in T20 World Cup history.
The stand helped UAE move into a strong position after early pressure and allowed the middle order to play with more freedom later in the innings.
Alishan Sharafu Knock
| Detail | Performance |
|---|---|
| Runs | 55 |
| Balls | 47 |
| Fours | 5 |
| Sixes | 2 |
| Strike Rate | 117.02 |
| Dismissal | c Chapman b Santner |
| Score at Dismissal | 119/2 (14.2 overs) |
Sharafu was eventually dismissed by Mitchell Santner, with Mark Chapman taking a sharp catch in the deep. By then, he had already laid a solid foundation for UAE.
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Growing Role in UAE Batting Line-up
The 23-year-old batter has become one of UAE’s most reliable players in recent years. Since the 2024 T20 World Cup, he has crossed 1,000 T20I runs, averaging around 32+ with a healthy strike rate.
Originally from Kerala, Sharafu has developed into a dependable middle-order player and is often described as UAE’s “man for all situations.” His promotion to No. 3 has added stability to the team’s batting structure.
Facing a strong team like New Zealand in a tough group, UAE needed someone to anchor the innings. Sharafu’s calm approach on the slow Chennai surface showed his ability to adapt to conditions and handle pressure.
Even though wickets fell later and the scoring rate slowed, his innings ensured UAE reached a competitive position.
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Key Highlights
| Category | Record/Impact |
|---|---|
| Partnership | 107 runs (Highest for UAE in T20 WC) |
| Player Milestone | 1,000+ T20I runs since 2024 WC |
| Batting Role | No. 3 stabiliser and anchor |
| Venue | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
Sharafu’s performance is another positive sign for associate nations in global tournaments. With consistent performances in international cricket and leagues like ILT20, he is emerging as one of the most promising young batters outside the full-member nations.
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As the match continues, UAE will hope their bowlers can defend the total. Regardless of the result, Sharafu’s half-century at Chepauk stands out as one of the key individual performances of the tournament so far.
