Kathmandu: In a thrilling contest, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged victorious over Bahrain by five wickets in the opening match of Group 'B' in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier.

The Mulpani Cricket Ground played host to this exciting encounter. Bahrain set a target of 136 runs for the UAE, which they successfully chased down in 18.2 overs, while losing five wickets in the process.

For the UAE, Ali Naseer played a pivotal role, remaining unbeaten with the highest score of 48 runs from 26 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes. Asif Khan contributed 23 runs, and both Captain Muhammad Waseem and Basil Hameed added 11 runs each.

On the bowling front, Rizwan Butt took two wickets, while Sathaiyah Veerapathiran, Abdul Majid Abbasi, and Sachin Kumar each claimed one wicket.

Bahrain, after losing the toss and being invited to bat first, managed to score 135 runs in their allotted 20 overs, losing six wickets in the process. Haider Butt was the standout performer, scoring 59 runs from 43 balls, featuring five fours and two sixes. Junaid Aziz contributed 25 runs, and Sohail Ahmed added 28 runs.

The UAE's bowling attack was led by Junaid Siddique and Aayan Khan, both of whom took two wickets. Ali Nasir and Kharthik Meiyappan claimed one wicket each. With this victory, the UAE secured two points in the ICC T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier.