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In an extraordinary display of dominance and strategic innovation, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Women's team secured a massive 163-run win over Qatar in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier 2025. The Group B clash, played in Malaysia, saw a never-before-seen move from UAE as they voluntarily retired out all ten of their batters after posting 192 without loss in just 16 overs.
Openers Esha Oza and Theertha Satish were in scintillating form, dismantling the Qatari bowling attack with ease. Oza blazed her way to a stunning 113 off 55 balls, including 14 fours and 5 sixes, while Satish anchored the other end with a fluent 74 off 42 deliveries. Together, they set up the highest partnership of the tournament and one of the most dominant opening stands in the history of women's T20 cricket.
But the most talked-about moment came when, at the end of the 16th over, UAE chose to retire out all ten batters without a single dismissal. The move, reportedly made in anticipation of potential rain interruptions, ensured the innings could be closed strategically to give their bowlers a full opportunity to secure victory through the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method if needed.
Never seen anything like this before: Social media reactions to UAE’s bizarre yet clever cricketing tactics
Qatar Women, clearly overwhelmed by the mammoth total and UAE’s clinical bowling, folded for just 29 runs in 11.1 overs. UAE’s bowlers shared the spoils in a ruthless performance that completed the demolition. Here’s a look at some of the reactions from cricketing fans on this bizarre incident:
The Emirates Cricket Board hailed the team's innovative and confident approach, posting highlights and celebrating the historic win on social media.
