Despite the result, Canada found positives in its ability to bounce back from early damage during a steep chase. Harsh Thaker’s Navneet Dhaliwal half-century and encouraging middle-order form offered glimpses of stability, while left-arm spinner Ansh Patel impressed by dismissing key batsmen including Aiden Markram. Thaker admitted there were “a lot of positives”, particularly fighting back after losing four early wickets, although he acknowledged the execution with the ball could have been sharper.
The United Arab Emirates, meanwhile, will be looking to rediscover the rhythm that has helped them trouble stronger opponents in recent years. Captain Muhammad Waseem stressed the need to improve bowling plans and adapt better to situations after their loss to the Kiwis. With the batting of Alishan Sharaf and the experience of pacer Junaid Siddique expected to play a key role, the contest gives both teams a chance to revive fading hopes and inject new belief into their World Cup journeys.