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In a big turnaround, United Arab Emirates (UAE) captain Esha Oza steered her team to a dominant seven-wicket victory over India A during their opening match of the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026.
UAE upset India A in Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars
The clash, held at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Thailand on Friday, saw the UAE chase down a target of 131 with four balls to spare, making a bold statement early in the tournament.
Oza was the undisputed star of the chase, delivering a masterclass in controlled aggression. She remained unbeaten on 72 from 61 deliveries, anchoring the innings and ensuring her side stayed on track despite the pressure of facing an Indian bowling attack. Her leadership from the front proved to be the difference-maker in securing the clinical win.
Earlier in the day, the Radha Yadav-led India A side struggled to find their rhythm after opting to bat first. UAE pacer Samaira Dharnidharka dismantled the Indian top order during the PowerPlay, claiming three quick wickets and leaving the favorites reeling early on. Her opening spell set the tone for the UAE's disciplined performance in the field.
India A managed to recover slightly thanks to Anushka Sharma, who carried her strong form from the Women’s Premier League into this tournament. She provided much-needed stability with a composed 47 off 45 balls. A late cameo from Tanuja Kanwer, who struck a brisk 34 off 25 deliveries, eventually pushed the Indian total to 130 for nine, though it ultimately proved insufficient to defend.
Esha Oza shines bright in UAE's chase
The UAE’s pursuit of the 131-run target began steadily, with captain Esha Oza and Theertha Satish putting on 40 runs for the opening wicket. This foundation was briefly shaken in the eighth over when leg-spinner Prema Rawat broke the partnership by dismissing Satish. However, Oza quickly reclaimed the momentum, joining forces with Samaira Dharnidharka for a decisive 71-run stand that kept the UAE firmly in the driver's seat throughout the middle overs.
The final over provided a moment of high drama as India A captain Radha Yadav took the ball herself, needing to defend just four runs. She sparked a glimmer of hope for her side by dismissing Rinitha Rajith on the very first delivery. That tension was short-lived, however, as Heena Hotchandani struck a boundary off the second ball to seal the historic victory, sparking exuberant celebrations within the UAE dugout.
Looking ahead, both teams face high-stakes encounters on February 15. The UAE will look to carry their winning momentum into their match against Nepal, while India A will search for a quick recovery in a marquee clash against arch-rivals Pakistan A later that same day.
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