In a chase of 173, the start was always going to be key for the MI Emirates. Muhammad Waseem, who’d had a quiet tournament so far by his own admission, took it upon himself to get the team off to a flier tonight, which he did with a 10-ball 26. He was at the post-match press-conference talking about his batting, UAE cricket, the playoffs. Excerpts.. 

On his innings

I felt like I got starts in all matches. But I kept getting out in unlucky ways. But it is important that the team kept winning. I’m happy with the way I batted today. 

Reasons behind his lack of runs in earlier games

The pitches have been good. ILT20 is among the top leagues in the world and the bowling has been top class. You could say I didn’t play all that well this year, but I feel I would play well in the important matches to come. 

Thoughts on the impact of ILT20 on UAE cricket

It is a proud moment for all our UAE players and the team. Our players get to share the dressing room and learn from the big players from around the world. I have learnt a lot from (Nicholas) Pooran and (Kieron) Pollard. 

On wanting to finish in the top two

We have 10 points and have a good net run-rate. We will look to finish in the top two. The plan is simple, we just have to stick to it. At one point it looked like we were nowhere in the game, but we won with five balls to spare. 

On the local UAE players 

There is very good talent in the UAE. There are some good players on the bench as well. They’ll hopefully come through next year.