Sohail Khan delivered a performance for the ages in UAE’s T20 World Cup clash with Canada, smashing a rapid 51 off 29 deliveries from the number six spot. This heroic effort not only clinched a crucial chase but also marked a historic milestone for UAE cricket—no player from the Gulf nation had previously reached fifty from that position or lower in the tournament.
The match at Arun Jaitley Stadium saw Canada set 151 for 7 after a solid batting display. UAE stuttered early, limping to 95 for 4 in 16 overs while pursuing the target. Khan, however, had other plans. His boundary-laden assault—featuring four fours and four sixes—propelled UAE over the line with 2.2 overs to spare.
Beyond the personal glory, Khan’s knock placed him among rarified company. He’s just the third associate batter to post a fifty from number six or below, following Nabi’s 52 for Afghanistan in 2016 and Wiese’s 55 for Namibia in 2022.
The real game-changer was his 84-run stand with Aryansh Sharma off 42 balls for the fifth wicket, now the third-best such partnership in T20 World Cup lore for associates. Afghanistan’s duo holds the record at 98, with USA’s pair at 91.
Canada’s innings was anchored by Thakor’s half-century and Dhaliwal’s 34, but Siddiqui’s 5-wicket haul restricted them. Sharma’s 74 laid the foundation, yet Khan’s explosive contribution proved decisive in UAE’s triumphant run chase.