Aryansh and Sohaib anchor chase as United Arab Emirates secured easy five-wicket victory over Canada in T20 World Cup 2026

In Match 20 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, the United Arab Emirates secured a composed five-wicket victory over Canada in Group D. Canada posted 150/7 in their 20 overs after opting to bat first, but UAE chased down the target with two balls to spare, finishing on 151/5 in 19.4 overs. A steady batting display, highlighted by a crucial partnership in the latter half of the innings, ensured UAE collected valuable points and strengthened their standing in the group table.

Canada’s innings saw contributions from several batters, with Harsh Thaker leading the charge with a well-compiled 50 off 41 deliveries. Navneet Dhaliwal added a steady 34, while Shreyas Movva chipped in with 21 to keep the scoreboard ticking. However, regular wickets prevented Canada from building sustained momentum. Junaid Siddique was the standout performer with the ball for UAE, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul and consistently breaking partnerships at key intervals to restrict the total.

Despite a promising middle phase, Canada’s innings lacked the final flourish required to push beyond the 160-mark. UAE’s bowlers maintained disciplined lines, with Muhammad Jawadullah also contributing economically. In reply, UAE endured a cautious start, losing early wickets in the powerplay. Canada’s bowlers, particularly Saad Bin Zafar, applied pressure through tight spells, briefly putting the chasing side on the back foot and raising hopes of a competitive defense.

See Also: List of injured players and their replacements in T20 World Cup 2026

Aryansh and Sohaib Anchor the Chase

The turning point came through a decisive partnership between Aryansh Sharma and Sohaib Khan. Aryansh anchored the chase with a composed unbeaten 74 off 53 balls, blending patience with timely boundaries. Sohaib provided the necessary acceleration, smashing 51 off 29 deliveries and shifting the momentum firmly in UAE’s favor. Their 84-run stand effectively neutralized Canada’s bowling attack and brought the target within comfortable reach in the closing overs.

Although Canada managed a few late breakthroughs, the required rate never spiraled out of control. UAE’s calm approach under pressure ensured they remained ahead of the equation. Aryansh’s unbeaten knock guided the team home, with Muhammad Arfan finishing the chase alongside him. The victory not only highlighted UAE’s batting depth but also underscored their growing confidence as they continued their campaign in the tournament.

Top Performers

Aryansh Sharma starred for the United Arab Emirates with a match-winning unbeaten 74 off 53 balls, anchoring the chase with composure and control. Sohaib Khan provided the decisive momentum shift, hammering 51 off 29 deliveries in a game-changing partnership. Earlier, Junaid Siddique’s brilliant five-wicket haul restricted Canada to 150/7. For Canada, Harsh Thaker’s steady 50 was the standout contribution with the bat, while Saad Bin Zafar impressed with three economical wickets.

Key Moments

Junaid Siddique’s early breakthroughs and consistent strikes through the middle overs prevented Canada from building a bigger total. During the chase, UAE slipped to 66/4, giving Canada hope. However, the crucial 84-run stand between Aryansh Sharma and Sohaib Khan swung the momentum decisively. Sohaib’s late assault brought the equation under control, and despite his dismissal near the end, Aryansh calmly guided UAE home with two balls to spare.

Brief Score – ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

Canada: 150/7 (20 overs)
Harsh Thaker 50 (41); Junaid Siddique 5/35

United Arab Emirates: 151/5 (19.4 overs)
Aryansh Sharma 74* (53), Sohaib Khan 51 (29); Saad Bin Zafar 3/14

Result: United Arab Emirates won by 5 wickets.