United Arab Emirates (UAE) produced a disciplined all-round performance to register a comfortable six-wicket victory over Indonesia in Match 8 of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday. Chasing a modest target of 74, UAE reached 75/4 in 13.1 overs, with Player of the Match Esha Oza contributing a composed 30.
Asked to bat first, Indonesia struggled to build momentum against an impressive UAE bowling attack. Captain Ni Putu Ayu Nanda Sakarini provided the backbone of the innings with a patient 39 off 52 balls, including four fours and a six. However, she received little support as wickets fell at regular intervals and Indonesia could manage only 73 all out in 19.4 overs.
UAE’s bowling attack was led by Suraksha Kotte, who returned excellent figures of 3/16 from four overs. Esha Oza claimed 2/11, while Heena Hotchandani was particularly economical, taking 2/6 in her four overs. Vaishnave Mahesh also picked up two wickets as Indonesia’s innings folded with two balls remaining.
The UAE chase began steadily but suffered a brief wobble after Theertha Satish fell for 11. Oza then took charge, striking five boundaries during her 29-ball 30. Rinitha Rajith added 22 off 24 balls, helping UAE move firmly towards victory.
Indonesia’s bowlers claimed four wickets, but the target was never seriously out of UAE’s reach. Oza’s dismissal at 62/2 briefly raised hopes of a twist, yet UAE completed the chase at 75/4 in 13.1 overs, securing a convincing victory with 41 balls to spare.
Heena Hotchandani hails ‘clinical’ UAE victory
Following the decisive win on home turf, UAE all-rounder Heena Hotchandani highlighted the significant morale boost the result provides for the squad. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Hotchandani expressed her delight at performing in front of home supporters.
“It was amazing for the team… getting that on home ground in front of our family, I think that’s a big one for us,” Hotchandani remarked.
Reflecting on the match dynamics, Hotchandani addressed the slight middle-order stumble during the run chase. She emphasized patience on tricky surfaces, noting, “In those situations, it’s important that whoever walks in takes some time and it’s fine taking some time as long as we get the points.”
Hotchandani also praised captain Esha Oza’s ongoing leadership and presence on the field. Calling Oza a true role model for the side, she stated, “She’s a big inspiration for everyone and she has been our pillar, carrying the innings most of the time.”
With crucial fixtures ahead, Hotchandani remains focused on taking things one match at a time, confident that the squad’s collective effort and steady bowling discipline will keep their tournament momentum alive.
Brief Score:
Indonesia Women 73 all out (19.4 overs) — Ni Putu Ayu Nanda Sakarini 39, Desi Wulandari 12; Suraksha Kotte 3/16, Esha Oza 2/11. UAE Women 75/4 (13.1 overs) — Esha Oza 30, Rinitha Rajith 22; Ni Kadek Ariani 1/10. UAE Women won by 6 wickets.
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