UAE miss out on Twenty20 finals

DUBAI // Afghanistan will play in the World Twenty20 in May after making it to the final of the qualifying competition. The Afghans snatched a four-wicket win over the United Arab Emirates in the final over of their last Super Four match in Dubai today. They will now play Ireland or Holland in the final but their place in the Caribbean is already assured as both finalists qualify. Opening batsman Noor Ali finished unbeaten on 38 to see them home with three balls to spare. The UAE were restricted to 100 for nine from their 20 overs after three for 17 from Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan's success continues the war-torn nation's remarkable rise in the game, having only gained affiliate membership of the International Cricket Council in 2001. * PA Sport