QatarAsian Town Cricket Stadium, Doha – July 20, 2025: Qatar kept their hopes alive in the five-match T20I series against Saudi Arabia by clinching a thrilling 4-wicket win in the third T20I, leveling the series 1-1. Chasing a competitive target of 170, Qatar held their nerve to cross the finish line with four balls to spare, riding on strong contributions from Mirza Mohammed Baig and Muhammad-Asim Liaqa
Having lost the toss, Saudi Arabia were put in to bat first on a dry Doha pitch. They made the most of the opportunity, posting a solid total of 169/7 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Waji Ul Hassan, who scored a gritty 57 off 46 balls, combining power and precision. He found able support in Abdul Manan Ali, who chipped in with 49 off 37 deliveries, while Faisal Khan added a brisk 32 off just 17 balls towards the end.
Qatar’s bowling unit was led by Daniel Archer Maria Louis, who picked up 3 wickets for 22 runs in just 2 overs. Mirza Mohammed Baig also played a key role, claiming 3 for 36 in his full quota of 4 overs. Although the Saudi batters kept the scoreboard ticking, timely breakthroughs prevented them from breaching the 180-run mark.
In response, Qatar got off to a steady start, with opener Muhammad-Asim Liaqat-Ali showcasing his attacking intent from the onset. His quickfire 44 off 25 balls provided the platform Qatar needed. After his dismissal, Shahzaib Jamil Ahmed (37* off 22) and Mirza Mohammed Baig (47* off 34) steered the chase with a calm yet calculated partnership.
Despite some disciplined bowling by Saudi Arabia—especially by Zain Ul Abidin (2/20 in 4 overs) and Ishtiaq Ahmad (2/23 in 3.2 overs)—Qatar managed to keep the asking rate in check. With just four balls remaining, Mirza Mohammed Baig struck the winning runs, sealing a vital win for his side and ensuring the series stays alive heading into the fourth T20I.
This victory marked an impressive turnaround for Qatar, who had stumbled in the earlier fixture but came back with renewed determination. Both teams are now tied 1-1 in the five-match series, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the contest.
Match Summary:
Saudi Arabia – 169/7 (20 overs)
- Waji Ul Hassan – 57 (46)
- Abdul Manan Ali – 49 (37)
- Faisal Khan – 32 (17)
- Daniel Archer Maria Louis – 3/22 (2)
- Mirza Mohammed Baig – 3/36 (4)
Qatar – 173/6 (19.2 overs)
- Mirza Mohammed Baig – 47* (34)
- Muhammad-Asim Liaqat-Ali – 44 (25)
- Shahzaib Jamil Ahmed – 37* (22)
- Zain Ul Abidin – 2/20 (4)
- Ishtiaq Ahmad – 2/23 (3.2)
Result: Qatar won by 4 wickets (4 balls remaining)
Series Status: Tied 1-1
Venue: Asian Town Cricket Stadium, Doha
Player of the Match: Mirza Mohammed Baig
