Related Articles
The final round of league games in the Gulf Cricket T20I Championship 2024 brings us an exciting contest as United Arab Emirates (UAE) takes on Saudi Arabia at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai. UAE, undefeated and sitting at the top of the standings, have already secured their place in the finals. Saudi Arabia, fresh off a convincing win against Oman, still have their hopes alive and must win this match to keep their campaign going.
With UAE’s dominating form and Saudi Arabia’s desperation to qualify, this promises to be a thrilling encounter. Can Saudi Arabia make history by defeating UAE for the first time, or will UAE extend their unbeaten streak?
Match Details
| Fixture | United Arab Emirates vs Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 19th December 2024 |
| Venue | ICC Academy Ground, Dubai |
| Time | 3:00 PM Local Time |
Teams Preview
United Arab Emirates Preview
UAE has been the standout team of the tournament, winning all their games convincingly. Captain Muhammad Waseem has led from the front with consistent performances, setting the tone for the team. Their recent 23-run win against Qatar showcased both their batting depth and bowling firepower.
Batting Lineup:
Muhammad Waseem, in sublime form, will aim to provide another explosive start alongside Tanish Suri, who has been a reliable partner at the top. The middle order comprising Asif Khan, Alishan Sharafu, and Rahul Chopra offers stability and firepower. Finishing duties rest with Ali Naseer, Dhruv Parashar, and Muhammad Zuhaib, all of whom are capable of big hits in the death overs.
Bowling Attack:
On the bowling front, UAE’s spearhead Junaid Siddique continues to be a menace, leading the wicket-takers chart in the tournament. He will be supported by Simranjeet Kang, who bagged a stunning 4-for in the last game. Muhammad Jawadullah, Ali Naseer, and Zuhaib Zubair add depth to their versatile attack.
Saudi Arabia Preview
Saudi Arabia pulled off a crucial 8-wicket win against Oman in their last match, keeping their playoff hopes alive. However, they face a steep challenge in this game, having never beaten UAE in T20Is.
Batting Lineup:
The batting was spearheaded by an incredible opening partnership between Usman Khalid and Faisal Khan, who put on a 91-run stand in the last match. Both will need to replicate this performance to challenge UAE. In the middle order, Abdul Waheed Ghaffar, Abdul Manan Ali, and captain Waji Ul Hassan will be tasked with anchoring the innings and finishing strong.
Bowling Attack:
Saudi Arabia’s bowlers have been inconsistent, but the team will rely heavily on Usman Najeeb and Ishtiaq Ahmad for early breakthroughs. Captain Waji Ul Hassan adds experience and control in the middle overs, while Zain Ul Abidin and Manan Ali must step up in the death overs to restrict UAE’s explosive lineup.
Fantasy Team XI Prediction
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | Muhammad Waseem |
| Vice-Captain | Junaid Siddique |
| Batsmen | Faisal Khan, Usman Khalid, Asif Khan |
| All-rounders | Waji Ul Hassan, Ali Naseer, Dhruv Parashar |
| Wicketkeeper | Tanish Suri |
| Bowlers | Simranjeet Kang, Usman Najeeb, Muhammad Jawadullah |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report:
The ICC Academy Ground in Dubai features a balanced pitch with consistent bounce. Batters who take time to settle can capitalize, while spinners and medium pacers will find assistance in the latter half of the innings. A par score on this surface is around 160-170 runs.
- Toss: Bowl first. Teams chasing have had the edge at this venue in recent games.
Weather Conditions:
Expect warm and humid conditions with temperatures hovering around 21-22°C. There’s no chance of rain, and the playing conditions will remain ideal throughout the match.
Winning Prediction
The United Arab Emirates have been the most dominant side in the Gulf Cricket T20I Championship and enter this game as overwhelming favorites. Saudi Arabia, despite their recent win, lack the firepower to consistently challenge UAE’s all-round strength.
Prediction: UAE to win comfortably
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
