United Arab Emirates vs Nepal, 91st Match

The upcoming ODI encounter between United Arab Emirates and Nepal at the ICC Academy Ground promises a competitive clash in the ICC Cricket World Cup League Two 2023-27. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance recently but have struggled with consistency, making form assessment crucial. UAE, playing at home, relies heavily on their experienced core including skipper Muhammad Waseem and all-rounder Vriitya Aravind, who have contributed significantly with bat and ball respectively. Their recent outings indicate a balanced side capable of both defending totals and chasing effectively on familiar pitches. Nepal, on the other hand, has been on a steady rise with emerging talents like Dipendra Singh Airee and top-order batsman Aasif Sheikh, who have impressed with aggressive and calculated strokeplay. Their bowling unit spearheaded by spinner Sandeep Lamichhane continues to be their biggest weapon, capable of breaking partnerships and stifling scoring rate. Historically, the two teams have had tightly contested matches with Nepal often edging out close encounters in low-scoring games. However, UAE’s home advantage and slightly stronger depth in both departments could tilt the scales. Strategically, UAE may aim to bat first to exploit the pitch conditions which tend to favor batsmen early on, while Nepal might back their bowling strength to keep pressure during middle overs and capitalize on UAE’s middle-order vulnerabilities. Tactical field placements and disciplined death bowling will be crucial. Given all factors, the winning probabilities lean slightly towards UAE but it will be a closely fought contest. #### AI Suggested Match Winner UAE: 54%, Nepal: 46%

If UAE bats first on the ICC Academy Ground, they are likely to post a competitive total in the range of 260-280 runs owing to their capable top and middle order and typically flat pitch offering consistent bounce. Conversely, if Nepal elects to bat first, their aggressive batting lineup and key players in form could push the first innings score around 250-270. The pitch’s slow nature might slightly favor spinners in the middle overs, and both teams have quality spin options that might restrict free scoring. However, history suggests teams batting first tend to have a slight advantage here, especially with the venue's average first innings scores hovering near the 270-run mark.

The ICC Academy Ground traditionally offers a balanced wicket with an even contest between bat and ball. The surface usually provides good carry and consistent bounce with some assistance for spinners as the innings progress. The average first innings score at this venue in ODI matches stands at around 270, with chasing teams having a marginally lower success rate of 45%, indicating that setting a target could be the preferred strategy. Among the two teams, UAE's Vriitya Aravind holds the best bowling record here with impressive figures of 4/32 in a previous encounter. Nepal’s Aasif Sheikh boasts the highest individual score on this ground for his side, registering a gritty 105 not out. Weather conditions for November 5th forecast mild temperatures around 28°C with a slight chance of late afternoon showers, which may affect play if the rain is persistent but currently seems unlikely to cause major interruptions.

Matches Played	UAE Wins	Nepal Wins	NR/Draw
12	6	5	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches	Wins	Losses
United Arab Emirates	W, L, W, L, W	3	2
Nepal	L, W, W, L, W	3	2

Muhammad Waseem: UAE's captain and top-order batsman, Waseem has scored consistently in recent games, anchoring innings with smart strokeplay and playing crucial knocks under pressure.

Vriitya Aravind: The dynamic all-rounder from UAE has been vital in both batting and bowling departments, delivering important middle-over breakthroughs with his spin and accelerating the scoreboard when needed.

Rohan Mustafa: An experienced UAE all-rounder known for steady batting and handy seam bowling, Mustafa has contributed significantly in recent matches, providing depth and balance.

Dipendra Singh Airee: Nepal's dangerous middle-order batsman, Airee is currently in fine form with aggressive innings and handy overs of spin bowling, giving Nepal flexibility.

Aasif Sheikh: This top-order batsman has been the backbone of Nepal’s batting, recently scoring consistent runs at a good strike rate, including a century on this ground previously.

Sandeep Lamichhane: Nepal’s premier spinner and key wicket-taker, Lamichhane continues to control the middle overs with his variations, picking crucial wickets to stall opposition momentum.