From long-distance truck driving to bowling for UAE, Matiullah is happy to deliver

Debutant seamer leaves behind 13-hour shifts as a driver to follow dream of being an international cricketer

Given what is at stake for them at the Cricket World Cup Qualifier Play-off in Namibia, it is understandable the UAE’s cricketers might be feeling up tight at present.

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The chance to make it to the next phase of World Cup qualifying is one goal. Perhaps more pressingly, so it retaining one-day international status. Lose that, and their jobs may be on the line.

Their loss against the United States in Windhoek on Thursday only served to aggravate tensions. For all the merits of a fine century by 18-year-old USA rookie Saiteja Mukkamalla, UAE know they largely had themselves to blame.

The defeat was characterised by some limp strokeplay, abysmal running between the wickets, and the type of fielding lapses which are unbecoming of one of the youngest and most athletic sides UAE have put out in ODI cricket.

Despite the inconsistency and insecurity, one player could at least afford himself a feeling of satisfaction.

Matiullah bowled just five overs, taking one wicket for the concession of 37 runs. It was unspectacular, but even being here at all is a notable achievement.