New Delhi: The United Arab Emirates registered their first victory in the T20 World Cup 2026, defeating Canada in a thrilling encounter, thanks to a match-winning knock from Bihar-born Sohaib Khan, who played a destructive cameo under pressure to seal the game.
Chasing a target of 151 runs, UAE found themselves in trouble after 16 overs, managing only 95 runs and appearing far from the finish line. However, the match took a dramatic turn when Sohaib Khan and Aryansh Sharma launched a stunning counter-attack from the 17th over onwards.
With fearless hitting and calculated aggression, the duo ensured UAE crossed the finish line with just two balls to spare, delivering a memorable win for their side.
Sohaib Credits MS Dhoni’s Calm Approach
Speaking after the match, Sohaib revealed that his mindset was inspired by former Indian captain MS Dhoni, known for his calmness in high-pressure situations.
“The strategy was very simple. We needed 12 runs per over. As MS Dhoni always says, when you are in a pressure game, just trust yourself and stay calm. That is exactly what I was thinking,” Sohaib said while addressing the media.
Batting at number six, Sohaib smashed a brilliant 51 off just 29 balls, striking four boundaries and four sixes, completely shifting the momentum in UAE’s favour.
Explosive Partnership Seals the Chase
Openers Aryansh Sharma remained unbeaten on 74 runs, playing a steady yet impactful innings. Together, Aryansh and Sohaib stitched an explosive partnership of 84 runs in just 42 balls, which proved decisive in the successful chase.
Sohaib was dismissed after the scores were level, but by then UAE had already gained full control and comfortably completed the chase.
From Gaya, Bihar to World Cup Heroics
Sohaib Khan, now 27, was born in Gaya district of Bihar. His father, Adeeb Khan, is a farmer who always prioritized education for his son. Due to limited schooling facilities in their village, Sohaib was admitted to Gyan Bharti School in Gaya, where his passion for cricket began.
After playing district and state-level tournaments, Sohaib pursued Sociology at Jamia Millia Islamia. Later, he moved to the UAE for work, where he balanced his professional life and cricket with discipline—working during the day at a company and practicing cricket at night.
His inspiring journey from a small town in Bihar to becoming a World Cup match-winner has now become one of the standout stories of the tournament.
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