Asia Cup: Pakistan weather early storm, win match by 7 wickets

Winning the toss and deciding to bat first, UAE made a disappointing start as they lost early wickets but a 29-run partnership between Shaiman Anwar and Usman Mushtaq bailed them out.

Shaiman was the top scorer for his side with a well compiled innings of 46. His 42-ball knock was laden with 5 boundaries and 2 sixes.

UAE maintained a low scoring rate till the 17th over but upped the ante soon after as their captain bludgeon the ball for 2 maximums.

Amjad Javed's knock of 27 off 18 balls provided the much needed impetus to the gulf nation as they managed a modest 129 runs for the loss of 6 wickets.

For Pakistan, Mohammed Amir gave away just 6 runs in his four overs while claiming 2 wickets. Mohammed Irfan also bagged 2 wickets, followed by skipper Shahid Afridi and Mohammed Sami who picked up a piece each.

Pakistan had an woeful start to their innings as well and at 17 for the loss of 3 wickets very much looked the second best team.

A 100 plus partnership between the seasoned pro Shoaib Malik and Umar Akmal sealed the game for them.

Malik remained unbeaten on 63 runs off 49 balls. He hit 3 sixes and 7 fours.

Akmal finished with a well compiled 50 runs off 46 balls while hitting 2 fours and 3 sixes.

For UAE, Amjad Javed picked up all the three wickets but was expensive towards the end.

Malik was adjudged the Man of the Match.